Homeland Security Warning - Patch for Windows - Virus Information

Computers are constantly under attack whether from spyware or virus infections or hackers trying to steal valuable information. If your computer becomes a victim of one of these attacks then it can be used to take part in other attacks or to transfer the infection to other computers on your network.

The Dept of Homeland Security is urging Windows users to apply a patch to protect themselves from possible worm attacks. “Attempts to exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems routinely occur within 24 hours of the release of a security patch” said a statment from the Department.

There is a flaw in the Server Service function of Windows which affects all versions of the operating system after Windows 2000. A buffer overrun could open up a remote code execution risk that could result in your system being taken over by an attacker. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Unpatched systems run a serious risk of being infected by a worm attack. The US-CERT recommends that users make sure their antivirus software is installed and updated, and that they are using a firewall. Additionally, it recommends you don’t open e-mails and attachments from unknown sources.

Download the Microsoft Security Bulletin MS06-040 to patch your computer immediately.

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