Internet Explorer Warning

 

Microsoft has just announced a new security patch for a recent computer vulnerability. For over a week, both Microsoft and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security had warned people not to use the Internet Explorer browser until Microsoft successfully patched the security breech.

Browsers that use Explorer versions six to 11 were affected. The company warns that without the fix, clicking on one malicious link is all it would take for hackers to hijack your computer. Those who still use the 12 year old Windows XP operating system are especially vulnerable because Microsoft no longer provides technical assistance and automatic updates to protect users’ computers.

Here are some recommendations from the United States Computer Emergency Team (US-CERT):

• Enable Microsoft EMET when possible
• If you are using Internet Explorer 10 or 11 with Enhanced Protected Mode enabled, you are safe as it breaks the exploit
• Use an alternate browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc.)

Again, Microsoft has provided a security patch that should alleviate the issue. They do have a security essentials area on their website that can provide updated information.

If you do decide to change your Internet Browser, there are many resources available—most with easy to follow, step-by-step instructions; some that will even move the sites you have bookmarked with Internet Explorer to the new browser.

 

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