Serious XP Flaw

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 ]

Article tags

Spread the word
Bookmark and Share
Read comments on this article, and add some feedback of your own

Article comments

Add your comment, speak your mind

Personal attacks are NOT allowed.
Please read our comment policy.
Please preview your comment.

blogcritics lists for Nov 28, 2009

fresh articles Most recent articles site-wide

fresh comments Most recent comments site-wide

most comments Most comments in 24hrs

top writers Most prolific Blogcritics for October

top commenters Most prolific Commenters in 24 hrs