Microsoft released Windows XP Service Pack 1, yesterday. Coincidentally, Gibson Research reported a severe security hole that could allow someone to send you a link that will delete all files in a specified directory--just by you clicking on it!

If (like me) you're too lazy to use Linux and too cheap to use Mac, and if you are using Windows XP, you must install SP1 now!

I have received e-mail with instructions on how to exploit this flaw. I tested it. It does exactly what GRC says--deletes every file in any directory the attacker designates. Major suckage.

If for whatever reason you cannot (or will not) install SP1, The Screen Savers has a workaround for the XP issue. Scroll down to the Boot Camp section. But as Sgt. Grump says: "Microsoft likes to 'help' you out by reinstalling files it thinks you need..." So, I am not that confident in that solution.

[ As seen on Solonor's Ink Well ]