MistressValerie1
Administrator
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2003
- Messages
- 8,738
- Points
- 0
All Windows versions are at risk for a new, unpatched security flaw involving malicious image files. This flaw is being actively exploited. A full discussion and an unofficial patch (not from Microsoft) are here: http://castlecops.com/f212-hexblog.html
Most antivirus programs can detect most variants of the exploit; I recommend running an AV with realtime protection, and checking for signature updates hourly. (Avast is the only free antivirus reported to detect all variants at this time.) Browsing with Firefox is somewhat less risky than IE because it will prompt before opening Windows Metafiles -- always click "Cancel" if prompted. Also, more than ever, it is best to avoid visiting porn, music lyrics, or free games sites, all of which are notorious for spreading malware.
Most antivirus programs can detect most variants of the exploit; I recommend running an AV with realtime protection, and checking for signature updates hourly. (Avast is the only free antivirus reported to detect all variants at this time.) Browsing with Firefox is somewhat less risky than IE because it will prompt before opening Windows Metafiles -- always click "Cancel" if prompted. Also, more than ever, it is best to avoid visiting porn, music lyrics, or free games sites, all of which are notorious for spreading malware.
