Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) recently alerted their users of hacker attacks. The tech company reported hackers could exploit a vulnerability within the operating system to gain access to the user’s computer.
Hackers can affect certain Windows OS
The attackers use specially created web content or emails which entice users to open the content. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) said they are well aware of the attacks. This issue only affects Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Microsoft Lync, and Microsoft Office 2003-2010. More recent versions of both Office and Windows are not affected.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) reported the company would take action on the matter. They also suggested a possible security update via monthly release process or offering an out-of-cycle update. For now, the company recommends that customers apply workarounds, which is a configuration or setting change that prohibits attack vectors.
The main vulnerability is the handling of the Tagged Image File Format files which are handled by a graphics processing component within the affected versions.
Dustin Childs explains the attack
Dustin Childs (communications manager for Microsoft Security Response Center) explained that the hackers need user interaction to operate. In a recent post on the Microsoft Blog, he reminded personal computer users, “As a best practice, we always encourage customers to follow the ‘Protect Your Computer’ guidance of enabling a firewall, applying all software updates and installing anti-virus and anti-spyware software. We also encourage customers to exercise caution when visiting websites and avoid clicking suspicious links or opening email messages from unfamiliar senders.”
The downside to Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) products and operating systems is the frequent vulnerabilities that come with the system. Windows products are often a prime target for hackers and this creates trouble for Microsoft customers. Fortunately, it appears that the computer giant is aware of the issue and is working towards a solution. For now, users should take the necessary precautions to prevent hackers from attacking their computer.
