Germany says 'nein' to Internet Explorer

Who do you think you are kidding Mr Ballmer?

The German government has told Internet users to steer clear of Microsoft's beleaguered Web browser Internet Explorer if they want to stay safe online.

Prompted no doubt by the revelation that a gaping hole in the browser's code allowed hackers to invade Google's Chinese servers, sparking a diplomatic row that could see the Internet search giant packing up its toys and going home, German authorities are saying that even changing IE's invasive and heavy-handed security settings to their highest level would still not offer sufficient protection.

Despite being holier than the Pope's string vest, Microsoft still insists that Exploder is safe. Google and over thirty other companies hacked in the far East may be unconvinced. The Germans certainly are.