The US government warns of Windows security flaw
Date: August 11, 2006Source: newsfactor.com
The U.S. government issued a serious warning to Windows users that a critical flaw in the operating system could enable a hacker to hijack their computers and install a virus, delete programs, or gain access to private accounts.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the rare advisory after Microsoft announced a dozen patches for vulnerablities in the Windows software as part of the company's monthly security bulletin. What apparently grabbed the department's attention is that one of the flaws opens a back door to a computer without any action by the user.
In urging home users and businesses to apply the MS06-040 patch, the DHS said that attempts to exploit the flaw were imminent, and that attacks on Windows could impact government systems, businesses, and critical I.T. infrastructure. In fact, such attacks have already been reported.
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