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Windows Update Patches Critical Spyware Vulnerability

Posted: September 14, 2017 to Technology.

Tags: Malware, Data Breach, AI

Microsoft recently released a bunch of patches to shore up security on 81 vulnerabilities, nearly half of which would allow hackers to execute commands on your computer. The patch fixes a wide variety of issues. The biggest one is a zero day exploit that has been actively used already. It allows a hacker to install programs, create users, and manipulate files. Even scarier, it allows hackers to access and record from a webcam, log keystrokes, and intercept Skype calls. This exploit is usually the result of a phishing campaign. There are three other publically-disclosed vulnerabilities this patch takes care of. The problems it fixes include redirecting people to fake websites and injecting malicious code. Further, it fixes a recently-discovered vulnerability in Bluetooth devices called BlueBorne, which lets hackers take control of Bluetooth devices and spread malware. Then there are fixes such as a DDoS flaw, memory corruption issues and other hackable vulnerabilities. The patch fixes problems in a number of products, including the Windows OS, web browsers, MS Office, Exchange, Adobe Flash and others. Given how many huge vulnerabilities are fixed in this patch, including a number that are already being exploited, you should make sure to update your Windows systems as soon as possible by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for Updates. Go ahead and do it now.

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About the Author

Craig Petronella, CEO and Founder of Petronella Technology Group
CEO, Founder & AI Architect, Petronella Technology Group

Craig Petronella founded Petronella Technology Group in 2002 and has spent more than 30 years working at the intersection of cybersecurity, AI, compliance, and digital forensics. He holds the CMMC Registered Practitioner credential (RP-1372) issued by the Cyber AB, is an NC Licensed Digital Forensics Examiner (License #604180-DFE), and completed MIT Professional Education programs in AI, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity. Craig also holds CompTIA Security+, CCNA, and Hyperledger certifications.

He is an Amazon #1 Best-Selling Author of 15+ books on cybersecurity and compliance, host of the Encrypted Ambition podcast (95+ episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon), and a cybersecurity keynote speaker with 200+ engagements at conferences, law firms, and corporate boardrooms. Craig serves as Contributing Editor for Cybersecurity at NC Triangle Attorney at Law Magazine and is a guest lecturer at NCCU School of Law. He has served as a digital forensics expert witness in federal and state court cases involving cybercrime, cryptocurrency fraud, SIM-swap attacks, and data breaches.

Under his leadership, Petronella Technology Group has served 2,500+ clients, maintained a zero-breach record among compliant clients, earned a BBB A+ rating every year since 2003, and been featured as a cybersecurity authority on CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, and WRAL. The company leverages SOC 2 Type II certified platforms and specializes in AI implementation, managed cybersecurity, CMMC/HIPAA/SOC 2 compliance, and digital forensics for businesses across the United States.

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