Experts Tripped Up At Their Own GameExperts Tripped Up At Their Own Game

Even security experts don't always know whom to trust when it comes to software.

Last week, security group w00w00 published an advisory warning AOL Instant Messenger users of a serious vulnerability that left their systems open to attack. The group suggested users run Robbie Saunders' AIM Filter as a possible temporary fix until AOL plugged the security hole.

Now, w00w00 says Saunders' software is itself a security threat. The group claims Saunders' application retrieves the AIM addresses of AIM users and opens porn Web sites on their screens. Those clickthroughs generate commissions for Saunders, w00w00 says.

On his Web site, Saunders doesn't deny the practice--instead, he justifies it, saying, "I need money."