URGENT SECURITY ALERT: For IE (Internet Explorer)

The security issue

Microsoft has announced a vulnerability in Internet Explorer through the Adobe Flash plugin. The Flash plugin is used to display banner ads, web animation and games. The United States government has issued a recommendation* to stop using Internet Explorer until it is patched.

Affected Internet Explorer versions include 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, RT, Server 2003, Server 2008 and Server 2012. Server 2008 and 2012 Core installations are not affected.

Adobe is working on a Flash update and Microsoft is working on an Internet Explorer update.

Unfortunately, Microsoft is not expected to release an update for Windows XP computers. Any computers running Windows XP should use an alternative browser and plan to upgrade Windows XP or replace the computer.

How to protect yourself

Currently, there are two primary ways to protect yourself:

1.       Install and use an alternative browser

2.       Disable Adobe Flash within Internet Explorer

If you need help with your Internet security, please call Bytecafe Consulting at 317-372-7625.

Install and use an alternative browser

Alternative web browsers, such as Firefox and Chrome, are unaffected by this issue. Bytecafe Consulting recommends downloading and using one of these alternative browsers, especially for Windows XP computers:

Google Chrome: https://www.google.com/chrome

Mozilla Firefox: http://www.mozilla.org/firefox

Additional Information

Microsoft Security Advisory

Guidance from the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT)

Disabling Adobe Flash in Internet Explorer

If using a different browser is not a viable option, disabling Adobe Flash is recommended.

1.       In Internet Explorer, click the gear icon to open the Tools menu.

2.       Click Manage add-ons

3.       In the Manage add-ons window, click on Shockwave Flash Object

4.       Click the Disable button

 

5.       Click the Close button.