"Microsoft has admitted that speech recognition features in Vista could be hijacked so that a PC tells itself to delete files or folders. Vista can respond to vocal commands and concern has been raised about malicious audio on websites or sent via e-mail. In one scenario outlined by users an MP3 file of voice instructions was used to tell the PC to delete documents. Microsoft said the exploit was "technically possible" but there was no need to worry. The firm has pointed out that in order for the flaw to be exploited the speech recognition feature would need to be activated and configured and both microphone and speakers would have to be switched on."

Obviously the chances of something like this actually causing havok are slim to none. Especially considering your mic would have to be near your speakers also. It's interesting to note that this exploit is the first of its kind since no other Microsoft OS has been capable of this type of advanced speech recognition. In terms of the positive capability of Vista's speech engine, this exploit could pave the way for ingenius home integration appliances and tasks previously impossible or absurdly expensive.

BBC News