The chief technology officer for a technology firm that works closely with Microsoft lost his job after he helped write a study (released on Wednesday) that was critical of the insecurity of Microsoft software. “Daniel E. Geer Jr., an expert with nearly three decades studying technology and computer security, learned Thursday he was no longer employed by AtStake Inc. of Cambridge, Mass.,” reports The Mercury News. “…critics said Geer’s firing was reflective of Microsoft’s far-reaching ability in Washington and across the technology industry to silence experts who complain about weaknesses in its software or its aggressive business practices.”