1-22-96. W$J: "VeriFone and Netscape Plan Software To Ease Internet Credit-Card Payments." They aim to simplify payments with software for both banks and merchants. The bank software would allow banks to use their existing computer systems to read and process transactions. The merchant software would allow merchants to buy just one software package to put up an electronic storefront and payment system on the Web. Netscape said the software will include a new encryption technology that Visa and MasterCard are expected to announce in two to three weeks. That technology would break sensitive information into 1,024 bits instead of the 128 bits used currently. "AOL, Netscape Are Discussing An Alliance." Netscape and America Online Inc. are in talks to forge an alliance aimed at furthering their lead over the on-line push by software giant Microsoft Corp. "If you can't beat 'em, unguent 'em," Case-squirted an a-oiler. NSC_lub