"Not a pretty picture" - vulnerability affects operating system
and programs
 |
| Microsoft has described the vulnerability as
critical |
A new critical security vulnerability has been discovered by
Microsoft that could enable software viewing JPEG image files
(.JPG) to launch malicious code on a user's computer. The security
hole could be exploited by hackers or a future internet worm.
Microsoft is recommending that customers patch their computers
against the security vulnerability immediately.
"JPEG images are commonly used for graphics on websites and
digital photographs so this vulnerability is extremely serious,"
said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "The
message, however, is not to panic but to calmly patch your
computers now before a virus writer or hacker tries to exploit the
loophole and attack innocent users' computers."
A technical bulletin at www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/MS04-028.mspx
describes the latest security problem in detail and includes links
to patches supplied by Microsoft.
Windows XP SP2 users may still be vulnerable to JPEG flaw
Sophos warns users of Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 that
they may still be at risk from the flaw, even though Microsoft has
declared the operating system itself does not require an update, as
the vulnerability affects programs as well as the operating
system.
"Although the Windows XP SP2 operating system is not reported as
having the vulnerability, if you are running programs on XP SP2
which contain the flaw - such as Microsoft Office - you could be
putting your computer data in danger. It's important that everyone
at risk ensures their PC is running the latest security updates,"
said Cluley.
Keep yourself informed about future vulnerabilities, and ensure
your security is up-to-date
Sophos recommends that every IT manager responsible for security
should consider subscribing to vulnerability mailing lists such as
that operated by Microsoft at www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/notify.mspx.
"Home users should consider checking out the services Microsoft
offers at windowsupdate.microsoft.com, which can scan
your home PC for security vulnerabilities and suggest which
critical patches need to be installed," continued Cluley.
Sophos continues to recommend computer users practise safe computing as well as running
up-to-date anti-virus software.
More than 100 million users in 150 countries rely on Sophos as the best protection against complex threats and data loss. Sophos is committed to providing security and data protection solutions that are simple to manage, deploy and use and that deliver the industry's lowest total cost of ownership. Sophos offers award-winning encryption, endpoint security, web, email, and network access control solutions backed by SophosLabs - a global network of threat intelligence centers. With more than two decades of experience, Sophos is regarded as a leader in security and data protection by top analyst firms and has received many industry awards.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com.