Microsoft Safety and Security Center
A few days ago Microsoft launched a New website: Safety and Security Center, aimed at helping users stay safe online and learn more about security. The website is easy to navigate and has a wealth of information.
Windows 7 Family Pack Is Back
Microsoft is making Windows 7 Family Pack available again for a limited time. If you missed out on this great sale last time Microsoft offered it, now is your chance to upgrade at an unbeatable price. The Family Pack pricing is $149.99 and allows you to install it on three home PCs (that's about $50 per PC). You can purchase Windows 7 Family Pack directly from the Microsoft Store or from many participating retailers.
Windows LNK Vulnerability Patched
On Monday, Microsoft issued an Out of Band Security Update for Windows 7, Vista, and Windows XP (SP3) to stop the spread of a vicious new worm taking advantage of a vulnerability in Windows LNK (shortcut) files. The vulnerability is already being used by malware. The update (KB2286198) will automatically install if you have Windows Update enabled. If you don't currently use Automatic Updates, you need to install the patch without delay.
Upgrade to Internet Explorer 8 Now
If you have Windows XP or Vista and you're currently using Internet Explorer 6 or 7, you need to upgrade to 8 without delay.
There is a new vulnerability being exploited that only affects Internet Explorer 6 and 7. With support for those older versions coming to an end, it's important to upgrade to the latest version.
More Adobe Updates!
Adobe is again issuing updates to it's Flash and Reader programs to prevent malware from having the upper hand. While it may seem like a hassle to have to keep updating Flash and Reader, it is important to keep these programs updated because they are becoming the preferred target of Malware trying to make it's way into our computers.
Adobe Updates Reader Software
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.
Use Adobe Reader? Disable JavaScript!
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.
Another Adobe Flash Update
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).
Microsoft Online Safety Website
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.
FileHippo Update Checker
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.