Just as it's important to visit Windows Updates on a regular basis or have Automatic Updates enabled, it's also necessary to run the latest versions of software to ensure that your PC is protected. Of particular importance is always running the latest versions of Adobe Flash Player, Sun Java, Adobe Reader and Apple QuickTime. They have all experienced vulnerabilities in the past that have allowed PCs to become compromised while running the vulnerable versions.
You're probably wondering, "How am I supposed to keep track of software vulnerabilities and updates?"
A few ways you can stay one step ahead:
- Visit the Adobe Flash Player, Sun Java, Adobe Reader and Apple QuickTime websites regularly to check for updates.
- Install Secunia Software Inspector and run it on a regular basis to check for missing updates.
- Visit Not Just PC often or subscribe so that you can be informed about new vulnerabilities and updates as they become available.
To help protect your computer from Trojans and Viruses that exploit certain vulnerabilities, keep your software updated and apply patches as soon as they become available.