Announcement

Preventative Measure - Please update your computers ASAP

A critical update is available for Windows that should be applied ASAP – right now if possible.

2008-12-17
Bryan Schneider

A critical update is available for Windows that should be applied ASAP – right now if possible.

As of October 23, 2008, a bug exists in all versions of Windows, and it may be a matter of days or hours until a worm is released to exploit this vulnerability.

I advise you to make sure that all updates are installed right now to prevent problems.

Please do this on your home computers and laptops. The computers on campus will be updated automatically

To ensure your computer is fully updated (all these updates are free):

• Start Internet Explorer and click on Tools, Windows Update. (Tools is on the menu bar).
• Install any Genuine Advantage or Windows Updating software updates that are offered.
• When prompted for Express or Custom updates, chose Express.
• A list of updates will be listed. Select all and install every one of them.
• After installation, your computer will need to be rebooted.
• Repeat from the first step again – Starting Internet Explorer and clicking on Tools, Windows Update… and Express install all updates it offers. Repeat this until you see a message saying that there are no high-priority updates for your computer.

XP computers should have Service Pack 3 installed and any updates since then.
Vista computers should have Service Pack 1 installed and any updates since then.

Got a MAC? Patch that too!

There have been rash of security updates over the past several weeks from Apple as well. Ensure automatic updates is turned on and all security patches and updates are installed.

Other Apple software – such as Quicktime, iTunes whether on a PC or Mac, exploits have been identified and patched recently on these products. Update these every time you may be prompted to do so.

Adobe products such as Reader, Shockwave and Flash, and Java software updates are just as important to apply. Even if your OS is updated, the software on your computer may make it vulnerable to viruses and worms.

The ITS Help Desk is available if you have questions or problems updating your computer at 389-6654.

Bryan Schneider
Director of Technical Services

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