Windows Updates Archives - Page 2 of 2

Security News: Microsoft Identifies Nasty New Bug | Provides Windows Patch

The last few weeks have seen a significant uptick in security problems. Many of these headaches are being caused by the concern of a new software worm circulating around the Internet. The Worm is now being identified as “Gimmiv” and the problem is serious enough for Microsoft to release a rare emergency Windows security patch – two weeks ahead of its normally scheduled monthly release of updates and patches.

According to PC Magazine, “This vulnerability is one of those rare ones that could result in a true network worm, where a system could be successfully attacked over the network with no user action at all.” The Microsoft advisory states that “Firewall best practices and standard default firewall configurations can help protect network resources from attacks that originate outside the enterprise perimeter.” It appears that firewalls, including the default Windows Firewall included in Windows XP and Vista, will block it.

“Antivirus 2008 ” — It Is Actually Spyware

Another spyware infestation we have seen (and removed) first hand recently includes a series of pop up windows indicating that you need to take some type of action to protect your system. Some of these pop ups are very well disguised and look very much like actual Windows Security dialog boxes. This spyware infestation includes “products” with names like “Antivirus 2008″ “Antivirus 2009”, “System Antivirus 2008”, “Windows Antivirus 2008” and “Vista Antivirus 2008” and “Ultimate Antivirus 2008.” Removal of these items is not necessarily an easy or straight forward process.

Some of these pop ups will explain that you need to pay $49.95 for the full antivirus license — Do Not. This group of spyware is what is known as a Trojan horse and can open up backdoor gateways into infected systems. Once infected the Trojan can download additional nasty items onto your system from the Internet as well as send your files off to other systems. Having your QuickBooks files sent off to who-knows-where is not a comforting thought.

If you do happen to see any indication of the above noted spyware “products” do not click on any of the links. Pop ups from these items can also include fraudulent error messages with some that look much like Windows messages. Clicking on any of the links can cause additional pop ups and/or cause other web sites to load in your browser. Current indications are that this spyware uses what is known as the Zlob Trojan as part of its engine for spreading the infestation. More information is available on the web by searching under any of the “product” names mentioned above.

What To Do — Recommended Actions:

Be sure your Internet security software is up-to-date. Run a manual update in the near future.
Run a full scan of your system after everything is up-to-date.
Install all current Windows patches and updates including Windows XP Service Pack 3 if running XP.
As always, close all other programs before installing Windows updates & patches.
Be sure to use firewall software and not just antivirus software. Firewall software is included in all Internet Security Suites.

Internet Security | Keep Your Systems Protected Against Malicious Software

By MikeM

We continue to see an ongoing increase in malicious software (viruses, spyware) infesting clients’ systems requiring significant clean up efforts. This is an Internet security problem that seems to go through cycles of lesser or greater activity. The main message here is to remind everyone to be vigilant in your antivirus, antispyware and firewall protection. Be proactive in keeping your computer systems protected against malicious software.

Key Internet Security Elements

The key elements for optimal protection against malicious software are: use an Internet Security Suite; keep the software as well as the antivirus and firewall files up to date; do not let your subscription lapse before getting the latest version; download and install the latest Windows Updates; don’t download files from web sites you are not familiar with; don’t open email from people you don’t recognize, and use a hardware firewall (router) when using a broadband Internet connection (cable modem or DSL).

Run Regular Scans

It is also recommended that a full antivirus/antispyware scan is run at least once a week on every computer. If you notice that you have some odd system behavior that may be a virus or spyware do not let it go unaddressed. If a spyware programs such as a Trojan Horse gets on your system it can potentially download a number of other malicious items over time without your knowledge. The longer a malicious program like this exists on your system the more significant (and potentially costly) the problem becomes.

Stay Protected – Keep Your Security Up to Date

Don’t assume all software is up to date and all scans are being done. Check your Internet Security software periodically to verify these things. Vigliance can save you from some real headaches.

Service Packs for Microsoft Windows and Office

By MikeM

Question: I’ve heard about things called “Service Packs” for Windows and for Microsoft Office. What is a “Service Pack” and do I need them?

Answer: According to Microsoft, “Service packs are the means by which product updates are distributed. Service packs may contain updates for system reliability, program compatibility, security, and more. All of these updates are conveniently bundled for easy downloading.”

Service Packs for Windows and Office

Services packs (SP) come out roughly every 12 – 18 months for most Microsoft products. In the last few months Microsoft has released a Service Pack for Windows Vista (SP1), Windows XP (SP3), Office 2003 (SP3), and Office 2007 (SP1). Each of these contains bug fixes, patches, updates and some even contain new functionality.

Recommendations for Microsoft Service Packs

We recommend installing Service Packs as they become available. Sometimes Microsoft will automatically transfer (push) these item down to your system across the Internet. Sometimes it will depend on how you have your Windows Update service configured. Service Packs can be large (60 MB – 300 MB) and can take a while to install fully. Be sure to close all other programs before installing a Service Pack and let the process run to completion.