Will Passport ding Microsoft's wallet?

A security flaw in the Passport identity service not only puts subscribers' information at risk of theft, but also puts a serious dent in Microsoft's push to deliver reliable software. The damage could go beyond public relations, though, and end up costing the company a chunk of cash.

Passport problems could cost Microsoft
The company could pay a steep penalty if the Federal Trade Commission determines that it violated a consent decree to boost the service's security and privacy protections.
May 8, 2003

Microsoft fixes Passport flaw
The software giant works overnight to repair the password reset feature of its online identity service after a flaw was discovered that put millions of accounts at risk.
May 8, 2003

Password flaw cracks Passport security
Microsoft shuts down a feature of its Passport service that put people's accounts, including their personal information and credit card numbers, at risk of being hijacked.
May 8, 2003

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Microsoft: A separate look for security
Pages with private data will look different than regular, unsecured pages, reminding users that they're looking at confidential material--and preventing "spoof attacks," Microsoft says.
May 8, 2003