Microsoft releases 10 security updates.Microsoft have released 10 security fixes for various products. Seven fix flaws that pose the biggest threat to users. The new patches apply to a variety of products, including some versions of Microsoft's Windows operating system operating system (OS) Software that controls the operation of a computer, directs the input and output of data, keeps track of files, and controls the processing of computer programs. and server software, its Internet Explorer Microsoft's Web browser, which comes with Windows starting with Windows 98. Commonly called "IE," versions for Mac and Unix are also available. Internet Explorer is the most widely used Web browser on the market. It has also been the browser engine in AOL's Internet access software. Web browser The program that serves as your front end to the Web on the Internet. In order to view a site, you type its address (URL) into the browser's Location field; for example, www.computerlanguage.com, and the home page of that site is downloaded to you. and Excel spreadsheet program. The seven critical flaws could allow an attacker to take control of a user's computer, while three other fixes deemed "important"--the second-highest rating--pose less of a threat. Microwave also rereleased a patch it put out last month because of problems with the fix and with the company's massive new security update for the latest version of Windows, which is called Service Pack 2. The patch aimed to fix a flaw that could allow an attacker to infiltrate infiltrate /in·fil·trate/ (in-fil´trat) 1. to penetrate the interstices of a tissue or substance. 2. the material or solution so deposited. in·fil·trate v. 1. a computer if the user viewed a specially crafted image in the popular JPEG JPEG in full Joint Photographic Experts Group Standard computer file format for storing graphic images in a compressed form for general use. JPEG images are compressed using a mathematical algorithm. format. People who had Service Pack 2 and are also using Office XP didn't receive the update correctly because of a problem with the installer. Comment: Syrnantec, said some of the vulnerabilities, if exploited, could allow an attacker to take control of a person's computer even if the person just looked at an e-mail or viewed a Web site containing a malicious Involving malice; characterized by wicked or mischievous motives or intentions. An act done maliciously is one that is wrongful and performed willfully or intentionally, and without legal justification. DESERTION, MALICIOUS. file. Other vulnerabilities require more action on the user's part, such as opening a file. The sheer volume of updates Microsoft released Tuesday could pose problems for businesses grappling to get them all installed in time to prevent attacks. Many companies must first test the fixes to make sure they don't break other applications that are necessary for doing business. www.msnbc.msn.com/ |
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