15 Nov 2006
Microsoft releases patches for critical security holes
Companies and home users urged to patch at the earliest opportunity
Several of the security vulnerabilities in Microsoft's software are
classed as critical
As part of its monthly patch distribution, Microsoft has issued
a series of new security updates for Microsoft Windows and Internet
Explorer. Some of the vulnerabilities addressed by the patches are
categorized as critical. If left unpatched the vulnerabilities
could allow hackers to remotely execute code (such as a worm) on
vulnerable PCs.
"The release of these patches means that it's time once again
for businesses and home users to patch their PCs. On many occasions
hackers have exploited vulnerabilities in Microsoft's software in
the days immediately following an announcement of problems, so
there's no time to waste," said Graham Cluley, senior
technology consultant for Sophos. "To properly protect your PC from
the hackers you need to ensure it is receiving regular security
patches, as well as defended by anti-malware software and a strong
firewall."
Home users of Microsoft Windows can visit update.microsoft.com to have their systems scanned for
critical Microsoft security vulnerabilities.
Sophos suggests 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.
Sophos continues to recommend companies protect their desktops
and servers with automatically updated
protection against viruses, spyware, and spam.
About Sophos
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.