Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws

Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws
Ted Bridis, The Associated Press 2004-02-10

Microsoft Corp. warned customers Tuesday about unusually serious security problems with its Windows software that could let hackers quietly break into their computers to steal files, delete data or eavesdrop on sensitive information.

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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
TJ

It is surprising the alarmist reporting of this article.

For example, ""This is one of the most serious Microsoft vulnerabilities ever released," said Marc Maiffret of eEye Digital Security Inc. of Aliso Viejo, Calif., which discovered the new Windows flaws. "The breadth of systems affected is probably the largest ever. This is something that will let you get into Internet servers, internal networks, pretty much any system."

Maiffret said some computer systems that control critically important power or water utilities were vulnerable."

This type of hyped reporting is irresponsible and self serving. Sounds like Mr. Maiffret is gloating on his discovery of the flaw.

Contrary to Mr. Maiffret's statement, Microsoft specifically states a mitigating factor for this exploit is the attacker would have to have direct access to the user's network. This means systems behind a firewall are protected and safe. Web servers and/or any systems connected directly to the Internet are at risk.

By all means, it is best to apply the patch. But the best approach includes ALL of the following, a firewall, weekly updated antivirus software, and installing patches.

Too many computers are connected to the Internet without securing them. This is equivalent to leaving your house or car doors unlocked. Until computer users are educated on securing their systems, as we are educated on securing our houses and cars, they will forever be open to computer expoits.

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Link to this comment: http://www.securityfocus.com/comments/articles/8003/25039#25039

Microsoft warns consumers about major Windows security flaws 2004-02-14
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