LATEST NEWS
New Virus Disables Anti-virus Programs
The Tooso virus will make it seem as if your anti-virus program is still functioning, even though it has been disabled. You can check to see if you have been infected by downloading a tool from the following location:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/FxBeagle.exe
Simply download it and run it.
Microsoft Discovers Security Hole in JPEG Files
Microsoft has discovered a security vulernability in JPEG files that could allow an outsider to take control over your computer. There are updates that can be applied to resolve this issue. Be sure to visit http://www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins/200409_jpeg.mspx to check if this applies to your system.
Latest Internet Explorer Patches
On July 2, 2004 Microsoft released the latest in a series of security patches for its Internet Explorer. This one addresses the flaw that would allow an infected web site to dump its virus onto your computer and execute its unwanted actions. Be sure to visit http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp to check for critical updates in order to block this and other malicious programs.
Sasser Worm Hits the Net
A new computer "worm" called Sasser is travelling the Internet exploiting a flaw in the Microsoft Windows operating system. It can slow down your system and even make it repeatedly reboot itself. Be sure to visit http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp to check for critical updates in order to block this and other malicious programs.
Spyware Becoming More Prevalent
Spyware is appearing more and more often in many of our clients' systems. This reveals itself by producing several pop-up ads to appear on user screens and by slowing overall performance. Be sure to visit our discussion on Spyware for more information on its removal.
New Microsoft Security Flaws Discovered
A variety of security flaws are being discovered in the various Windows operating systems, Internet Explorer, and even MSN Messenger. These can allow outside users ("hackers") to take over control of your computer. This ability can result in your computer being used as a "spam" mass email sender. Other purposes could be to extract credit card numbers, passwords, email address lists, and other uses.
It is always a good practice to check Microsoft's web site regularly for patches. This can be done by going to the Start/Windows Updates icon. Another method is to go there directly at http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp Once there, scan for updates and download the various critical updates and service packs.
New Viruses Cropping Up
Many new viruses and "worms" are appearing almost daily. Some recent examples are Mydoom and Gaobot among others. It is crucial to maintain the most recent anti-virus databases to avoid problems. See our virus discussion for more information.
For further information on any topic, please feel free to contact us.
Return to Technical Topics Menu
|