Microsoft is planning to update its Windows platforms so that their AutoRun features – one of the preferred vectors for spreading the infectious Conficker worm – does not support USB sticks, the company announced Tuesday. In the next version of the operating system, Windows 7, AutoRun – a technology that automatically runs programs when media is plugged into a PC – only will work for CDs and DVDs. Engineers plan to extend this change to Vista and XP platforms. — DK