Internet Explorer Security Flaw: Ways to Protect Yourself

Internet Explorer Security Flaw: Ways to Protect Yourself

Use a different Web Browser

This is the path of least resistance. Until Microsoft patches up this hole, using a browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox can keep you safe from this particular vulnerability.

Don't click on suspicious Emails or Chat Links

This is a rule for every day, not just today. This vulnerability only works if the bad guys can get you to click your way to a special infected page they’ve set up. These trick links might make their way to you via email messages or chat messages that seem legit. If someone forwards you an email or initiates a chat with a link in it, call them on the phone and ask them if they really sent it. This accomplishes two things: One, you can make sure you’re not being duped. Two, it’ll make that person think twice about forwarding you an email or trying to chat with you ever again. The less time you spend dealing with forwarded emails and mind-numbing chat conversations, the more time you’ll have to live your life as intended :-)

Ramp up the IE security Settings (Last Resort)

If you don’t want to use a different browser until this blows over, you can goose Internet Explorer’s security level instead. Take note that ramping up the security level could impact the performance on certain sites, especially those containing interactive elements. This should be a last resort, like if you’re using a work computer and your IT department won’t allow you to install a new browser. Seriously, try Chrome or Firefox first if you can. You might like them.

Windows XP

If you’re using Internet Explorer on Windows XP, the chances that this issue’s going to get fixed are pretty bleak. Microsoft finally dropped support for XP earlier this month, which means any security fix that’s issued for one of Microsoft’s newer operating systems won’t make its way to Windows XP. If you insist on using XP, your best bet would be to use a different browser like Chrome or Firefox for everything and cross your fingers that neither of those browsers suffers a serious setback such as this in the future.  If you would like to upgrade from Windows XP - Contact our team on 042-9335355

Finally....

Always apply your Microsoft Updates...   Click the Start button, click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.

Windows XP support ends: Survival tips to stay safe

Ok - So today is the day...the day we've all been dreading.  XP is Officially Dead.  While we recommend that you either upgrade your Operating system or change your PC altogether (Our support can advise you on this accordingly - 042-9335355), here are a few tips to keep the wolf from the door

Tip one? Stop using Internet Explorer.

The most common version of IE used on XP systems is version 8, and considering that Internet Explorer is now up to version 11, you can see how old and obsolete the browser is. Not only this, but Internet Explorer 7 and 8 will also not be updated further, leaving your system vulnerable to malware that exploits this old program.

Both Mozilla' Firefox and Google's Chrome browser will continue support for Windows XP after expiration, and so choose to use one of these browsers instead of Internet Explorer if you are still running XP. This will at least give you a little more time, but be aware that Chrome on XP will only be supported for one more year, and it is not known how long Firefox will offer support.

Tip Two? Keep Third Party Software Up-To-date.

The fewer software packages you have installed on your computer, the fewer routes that hackers can take to infiltrate your system.

Any software you cannot live without, especially if used in tandem with an Internet connection, must be kept fully updated at all times. Adobe Flash, PDF readers and Java are of particular concern, as they are often targets for hackers, and while modern versions check for updates automatically, older versions may skip checks altogether

Tip Three? Turn the Windows Firewall on

It may seem like an obvious tip, but it is amazing how often this critical security feature is turned off and forgotten about.

Go to your control panel, select Windows Firewall, and turn the security barrier on — and leave it that way

Tip Four? Stay Vigilant

If you're using an archaic operating system, being careful when you browse the Web will now be critical to staying safe.

Do not click on emailed attachments or links that are suspicious, and if you receive an email which seems legitimate - whether from the tax office or bank, ring them first and clarify the contents before submitting any personal data. Stay away from websites that are known sources of malware, adware, and spyware, and be careful about visiting websites with expired security certificates (Free Music / Applications / Movies & Pornographic websites are main culprits here)

Tip Five? Protect yourself against Viruses & Malware

Microsoft's Windows XP will not be updated and protected against major flaws any longer, but this does not mean security needs to go entirely out of the window.

Microsoft says you'll be facing a zero day scenario by clinging on to the old operating system, and that's likely, but it doesn't mean you'll immediately be left out in the cold by many security vendors.  Even Microsoft's own Antivirus product is providing signature updates after April 8th (you just can't install it after April 8th).  Panda, AVG, Avast etc will continue to support Windows XP but this is not an indefinite thing.  We also recommend Running a full version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to compliment your AV.  This can be purchased through ourselves (042)9335355

Tip Six?  Install Windows 7

The final, and most useful tip? Changing, updating and shoring up the system are only temporary measures. If you want to stay safe, you need to upgrade the operating system to a newer version, such as Windows 7, or change your OS altogether.  The PC Repair Centre can quote you for either a new system or check you out for a potential operating system upgrade.  You can contact out support team on (042)9335355.  Remember guys - Stay Safe out there!!