By Myra R. on January 13, 2010

The Adobe Reader update that we have been waiting almost a month for has finally arrived.
Adobe has has updated it's Reader Software to version 9.3. This version patches a JavaScript vulnerability that is considered critical and everyone that uses Adobe Reader software is strongly urged to update at once.
You have a few options to update to latest version of Adobe Reader.
The easiest way to update the software is to run the update from within Adobe Reader by going to Help, Check for Updates:

If you have difficulty updating the software or prefer to download and install the update manually, you can get it at Adobe. Remember to uncheck the box under “also install” or security software will be added to the installation (see screen-shot):

Additionally, you can download it from FileHippo (without any additional software):

Whatever method you use to update your software, be sure to do it soon. Not updating your Adobe Reader software will leave your PC vulnerable.
You can read more about this update by visiting Adobe's Security Advisory Page.
Posted in PC Security | Tagged PDF vulnerability, update, vulnerable software
By Myra R. on December 16, 2009
A new vulnerability has been found in Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat. In order to stay protected until a patch is issued, Adobe recommends that users disable JavaScript in these programs.
Disabling JavaScript is a fast, simple procedure. From within Adobe Reader, go to Edit, choose Preferences, then on the left-side of the window, click JavaScript. Uncheck Enable Acrobat JavaScript, then click OK.
Adobe is expected to issue a patch for this vulnerability during the second week of January. Until then, you can stay protected by disabling JavaScript. continue reading: Use Adobe Reader? Disable JavaScript! -»
Posted in PC Security | Tagged PDF vulnerability, vulnerable software
By Myra R. on December 9, 2009

Adobe has issued a new security update for Adobe Flash. The new version, 10.0.42.34, fixes a vulnerability that could allow an attacker to take control of an affected PC.
If you use other browsers besides Internet Explorer, download and install both updated Flash Players (One is for IE and the second is for all other browsers). continue reading: Another Adobe Flash Update -»
Posted in PC Security | Tagged Adobe Flash update, update, vulnerable software
By Myra R. on September 10, 2009
Microsoft has just unveiled Microsoft Online Safety. It's chock-full of tips, information, and the latest security news to help you protect yourself, your family and your PC while using the Internet. continue reading: Microsoft Online Safety Website -»
Posted in PC Security, Tech News | Tagged Microsoft, online safety, protection, spyware prevention
By Myra R. on August 4, 2009

Keeping track of software updates has become so much easier thanks to FileHippo.com Update Checker . This is a simple program that does it's job beautifully. It scans your computer, then presents a list of all the programs you have installed that have updated versions available for download. continue reading: FileHippo Update Checker -»
Posted in Software | Tagged freeware, update
By Myra R. on August 1, 2009
Adobe has release updated versions of it's Flash and Reader software to plug critical vulnerabilities that could enable an attacker to take control of your system by allowing malicious code to run.
Downloads:
Update Adobe software as soon as possible to help keep your PC protected. continue reading: Adobe Critical Updates -»
Posted in PC Security | Tagged PDF vulnerability, update, vulnerable software
By Myra R. on July 29, 2009
Yesterday, Microsoft took the unusual step of releasing two emergency updates, one for a Critical Vulnerability in Internet Explorer and another for Visual Studio. It is rare for Microsoft to deviate from it's monthly patch schedule, which should give you an idea of how important this particular update is. Normally, patches are issued once a month (on the second Tuesday). continue reading: Emergency Microsoft Windows Patches -»
Posted in PC Security | Tagged Internet Explorer, vulnerable software, Windows Update
By Myra R. on July 7, 2009
Users of Internet Explorer in Windows 2000 and XP are being targeted thanks to a Video Active X exploit in DirectShow that is allowing PCs to become compromised.
Many websites have been hacked with a malicious script that checks for the vulnerability and if you visit the website with Windows 2000 or XP and do not have the vulnerability patched, the site will attempt to re-route you to a malicious site that will silently download and execute a keylogging program.
In addition to this latest exploit is another vulnerability in DirectShow that has not been patched by Microsoft either and affects ALL browsers. Both vulnerabilities are dangerous and considered “drive by downloads“.
Patches for these exploits are not yet available via Windows Update but Microsoft has created Advisories for each and Workaround fixes that can be used in the meantime to mitigate your risk. continue reading: DirectShow Vulnerabilities -»
Posted in PC Security | Tagged FIX, vulnerability, Windows XP
By Myra R. on July 1, 2009
The newest version of Firefox has arrived. Firefox 3.5 boasts improved anti-phishing, anti-malware, bookmark organization, session restore and is actually faster than previous versions. It also includes a new Private Browsing mode similar to Internet Explorer 8's InPrivate. continue reading: Firefox 3.5 Released -»
Posted in Software, Tech News | Tagged browser, FireFox, internet, update
By Myra R. on June 27, 2009
Microsoft Windows 7 is currently available for Pre-Order until July 11th (while supplies last). At only $49.99, the Premium Home version is a steal. I wasted no time in pre-ordering my upgrade licenses and will be counting down the days until October 22nd (the expected shipping date). If you don't plan on purchasing a new PC in the near future and your PC currently has Windows Vista or XP, this is your best chance to get a fantastic Operating System at a great price. continue reading: Pre-Order Windows 7 Now -»
Posted in Tech News | Tagged upgrade, Windows, Windows 7