132 Critical Windows Vulnerabilities Patched – Update Your System Immediately
Keeping your computer secure is extremely important, and a vital measure to take is to regularly update it with the latest security patches. Microsoft has recently released its July 2023 Patch, which tackles a total of 132 flaws, including six zero-day vulnerabilities. Alarmingly, hackers have actively exploited these vulnerabilities.
According to BleepingComputer, one of the zero-day vulnerabilities has been exploited through malicious files sent via emails or websites. Another is a vulnerability in the Windows SmartScreen security feature that prevents the Open File – Security Warning prompt when files are downloaded from the Internet.
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Error Reporting Service could allow attackers to gain administrative privileges, but they would need local access to exploit it.
Another example of an actively exploited zero-day vulnerability was in Microsoft Outlook, which allowed attackers to bypass security warnings in the email service’s preview panel.
To keep your Windows PC safe, it’s very important to install the latest security updates quickly, even though Windows updates take time.
Antivirus program
Additionally, you should use reputable antivirus software such as McAfee antivirus and Windows Defender, especially if you’re on a budget, to protect your computer from malware and cyber threats. Other top antivirus software include Norton 360, Bitdefender Antivirus, and Malwarebytes. Below are the details of these antivirus programs:
McAfee: It offers comprehensive protection through its product portfolio, which includes real-time, on-demand and scheduled scanning options.
Windows Defender: It works as a signature-based anti-malware system that relies on special definitions to detect and fight malware on Windows systems.
Norton 360: It offers comprehensive all-in-one protection that protects your device, online privacy and identity.
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: It provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of electronic threats, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, zero-day exploits, rootkits and spyware.
Malwarebytes: It offers comprehensive solutions to protect your computer and personal data. Its powerful features include cleaning infected systems, protecting your identity and privacy from hackers, protecting important documents and financial files from ransomware, and protecting you from malicious and fraudulent websites.
While antivirus software is very good at stopping hackers, you should be wary of direct links you get from all kinds of sources that ask you to click on them. If you click on them, nothing can stop you from losing your data or even money. From phishing, to smishing, to initiation, these companies are also very insidious. Stay alert and prioritize security to protect your system from potential threats.