Microsoft issuing emergency browser fix

This just in from MSNBC:

“REDMOND, Wash. - Microsoft Corp. is taking the unusual step of issuing an emergency fix for a security hole in its Internet Explorer software that has exposed millions of users to having their computers taken over by hackers.

 

The "zero-day" vulnerability, which came to light last week, allows criminals to take over victims' machines simply by steering them to infected Web sites; users don't have to download anything for their computers to get infected, which makes the flaw in Internet Explorer's programming code so dangerous. Internet Explorer is the world's most widely used Web browser.

 

Microsoft said it plans to ship a security update, rated "critical," for the browser on Wednesday. People with the Windows Update feature activated on their computers will get the patch automatically.” More…

 

Because this flaw is extremely dangerous as it can steal stored passwords on your computer, it is absolutely critical that you install the update so you cannot be infected. The update is completely free of charge, as always provided by Microsoft. You will be able to download the patch tomorrow and I will have the link here as soon as it is available (the update is now available, look below). Again, it is very important you install this, especially if you use online banking, online gaming, online social networking, or any site which you have given any personal information to.

 

NAME AND INFO: MS08-078 Addresses a vulnerability in Internet Explorer (KB 960714)

INSTRUCTIONS:

For Windows XP: Perform Microsoft Update
For Windows Vista: Run the Windows Update tool.

• If you want for it to install Automatically, follow these steps (for Windows XP, for Windows Vista).

 

Note: If you think you already have an infection, you can run Microsoft’s FREE Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool.

 

- Albert