Security news
Security news26 February 2007
New version of Firefox web browser fixes security holes Mozilla Firefox 2.0.0.2 released to plug security vulnerabilities
Mozilla has released version 2.0.0.2 of its Firefox web browser, fixing security vulnerabilities.
Experts at SophosLabs™, Sophos's global network of virus and spam analysis centers, have advised businesses and home users to update their copies of the Mozilla Firefox web browser, in order to protect against a number of critical security flaws which could be exploited by hackers to run malicious code on victims' computers.
"It's critical that Firefox users keep themselves updated to protect against software vulnerabilities. Firefox users cannot fool themselves into thinking that security is just a problem for Microsoft products," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "It makes sense for all computer users to remain alert about the latest security flaws, and ensure they are running the latest patched version of their chosen internet browser."
More information about version 2.0.0.2 of Firefox, and details of the security issues it claims to fix, can be found on Mozilla's website.
"It has been much more common for hackers to target users of Microsoft Internet Explorer than Firefox, but that doesn't mean that Firefox users should stick their heads in the sand about security," continued Cluley. "Mozilla will stop releasing security and stability updates for Firefox 1.5 in April, so there really are no excuses for not upgrading to the latest edition of version 2.0."
The release of Firefox 2.0.0.2 comes just as news of other, as yet unpatched, vulnerabilities in the web browser have been made public. Firefox's share of the web browsing market is said to have recently dropped slightly in percentage terms, as Internet Explorer and Safari have climbed in popularity.
In January, Sophos published its Security Threat Report 2007, which revealed the increasing use of the web as a vector for malicious attacks by hackers. The report can be downloaded from the Sophos website:
Sophos continues to recommend computer users practise safe computing as well as running up-to-date protection against viruses, spyware, and other malicious attacks.
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About Sophos
Sophos enables enterprises all over the world to secure and control their IT infrastructure. Sophos's network access control, endpoint, web and email solutions simplify security to provide integrated defenses against malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, data leakage and compliance drift. With over 20 years of experience, Sophos protects over 100 million users in nearly 150 countries with its reliably engineered security solutions and services. Recognized for its high level of customer satisfaction and powerful yet easy-to-use solutions, Sophos has received many industry awards, as well as positive reviews and certifications.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com
