Here are the latest Security Patches and updates issued by software vendors:

Adobe Reader & Acrobat: Adobe Reader and Acrobat suffer from javaScript vulnerabilities that have been patched in version 9.1.1.

QuickTime: Apple released a security update for QuickTime that fixes 10 vulnerabilities which can allow code execution. As usual when these types of vulnerabilities are patched it is recommended that you update the software as soon as possible.

Firefox: Mozilla has updated Firefox to version 3.0.10. The new version fixes a stability issue and a security vulnerability.

Windows News:

Windows 7 RC (Release Candidate) is scheduled for May 5 and the final version of Widows 7 is expected to ship during late summer/early fall.

Users currently using Windows Vista will be able to purchase an upgrade version of Windows 7 and upgrade easily to the latest Operating System.

If you currently use Firefox, you'll want to update to version 3.0.8 (just released by Mozilla). This latest version fixes two critical security issues.

Mozilla continues to impress by issuing updates quickly whenever it becomes aware of vulnerabilities in it's browser.

In addition to the two security vulnerabilities, there were also a few bug fixed.

Yesterday, Microsoft released the final version of Internet Explorer 8. I previously described some notable IE 8 features in the beta version and want to urge those currently using older versions of Internet Explorer to take the plunge and upgrade to Internet Explorer 8.

Security and performance improvements in this latest version are vast when compared to older versions and the upgrade is simple as can be. Just download Internet Explorer 8 and run set-up. Your settings, favorites and cookies are easily transferred and the improvements are well worth the time it takes to download and install.

Adobe has issued a Security Update for Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat.

If left unpatched, the vulnerability can allow a malicious user to gain access to your computer. I strongly advise that those with older versions of Adobe Reader upgrade to the latest version immediately.

Adobe is warning about a Critical Vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader. Until a patch is issued, be wary of any PDFs posted online or received unexpectedly via email. If a malicious PDF file is opened, the vulnerability will allow malicious files to be silently downloaded onto your system. According to reports, this vulnerability is already being exploited.

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 Flash Player, Java, Adobe Reader and QuickTime. They have all experienced vulnerabilities in the past that have allowed PCs to become compromised while running the vulnerable versions.

Windows 7 will be available in two primary editions: Home Premium and Professional. In addition there will be an Ultimate version, but it is not expected to receive as much press as the two primary editions and might only be available as an upgrade through Microsoft.

Current Windows XP Users:

Windows XP users will be able to purchase a discounted upgrade license for Windows 7, but the pricing structure for Windows 7 has not yet been released.

Many people don't know how easy it is to create a screen-shot in Windows.

Look for the PrtScn key located on the upper right side of your keyboard (you should see it after the F12 key). Now click the PrtScn key once. That's it, you've just taken a screen-shot of your desktop (no kidding). You're probably thinking, “Okay, great, now how do I make the screen-shot appear?”

Microsoft has just patched a Critical Vulnerability in Internet Explorer. It is important that users apply the patch immediately. This vulnerability is being actively exploited to download a password stealing Trojan onto PCs as unsuspecting users browse compromised websites with Internet Explorer.

Go to Windows Update today to install the update.