CRITICAL SECURITY PATCH

Hi all,
I just read about a security patch for Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and Server 2003. On October 23 2008, Microsoft released a critical Windows security patch, which is something they haven't done since April 2007. This patch fixes a vulnerability that allows a remote program to be run in Windows without any authentication. A worm that uses the hole in the Windows security to take over a computer has already been released on the Internet. The worm is called "GIMMIV" and it locates the security hole on a computer and executes a program that steals passwords. The code for the worm was released on a popular hacking Web site, which leads many to believe that the exploit will be modified and different versions of Gimmiv will be released on the Web.

Symantec and McAfee, Inc. stated that they had only seen a small amount of attacks based on the exploit. However, Symantec said they discovered a 25 percent increase in network scans for computers that contain the vulnerability, which suggests the amount of attacks on this security hole may increase.

It is strongly recommended that you turn on your Automatic Updates and receive the security patch. (Start, Control Panel, Security center, automatic updates) I believe you could also go to Microsoft site and download what patches you deem necessary for your computer.

Every once in a while there is a cause to have your updates on, but not very often. I know most of you have them off. But you might want to take a look at this one if you use Windows. For the Linux users out there.........be quiet! Heeheehee

Hugs
Linda