Google researchers find a lot of bugs in software. When they do, they provide the developer a period of time to fix it before releasing information to the public. Most recently, the company disclosed that there is a flaw in Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 11 and Edge browsers that may allow an attacker to hijack them and potentially get malware onto users’ systems. Obviously, Microsoft wasn’t able to meet Google’s 90-day deadline to produce a fix for it, so they let the public in on it.
Consider using other browsers for the time being. Microsoft hasn’t provided a time to release a solution for this. In fact, the company cancelled its last scheduled release of security patches without explanation, leading some to speculate about problems within its security organization.
In the meantime, always double check the websites you visit when you type the URLs into the address bar. One typo can cause you to visit a malicious site. When possible, use a bookmarked link that you know is safe. This is especially important when visiting financial sites, healthcare sites, or others that store sensitive information. If entering personal or sensitive information, be sure that the site is secure by checking for the lock icon or that the address is preceded by “https://.”
Fortunately, there has been no evidence found that this issue is being exploited. However, now that some scant details have been disclosed, it’s only a matter of time before hackers figure out a way to do it. To the benefit of all, the researchers have chosen not to provide too many details that might give the hackers one up on us.
For banks and credit unions
Share this article with your members
Copy a ready-made summary and link for your newsletter, website or social posts.
