A new form of attack on Windows computers allows a hacker to take control of your computer when a particular graphic is displayed. There is no patch available from Microsoft as of Jan. 2, 2006, but there are steps that can reduce the computer’s vulnerability.

The WMF Flaw affects all browsers, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Mozilla, Opera and many others.

Millions of computers have been infected.

The flaw is in how Windows handles a graphic format – Windows Meta File – and lets a hacker install a "backdoor" that downloads adware, spyware and Trojan Horses on a compromised computer. The flaw has been rated “Extremely Critical” – the highest level.

You don't have to click on a link, open an attachment or take any other action, just be able to view the graphic on a web page, in an email or even an Instant Message.

Even "safe sites" such as WebMD can be a carrier, since ad banners that are not hosted at WebMD may inadvertently contain an infected graphic.

According to the Washington Post (12-28-05), “it is hard to find a recent Windows threat as potentially dangerous as this one -- the problem may be more dire than initial reports suggested … According to an advisory published by Microsoft late Wednesday, the flaw is present in every Windows version dating back to Windows 98...“, even fully updated systems.

A free illustrated guide to reducing vulnerability to this attack is available at www.HelpProtectMyComputer.com/WMFflaw.html.

The new fully illustrated eBook, “Help! Something’s Got Hold of My Computer and It Won’t Let Go!” contains tools, fixes and education to prevent Phishing, Pharming and many other forms of attacks on PCs and is available at www.HelpProtectMyComputer.com. A free PC Security newsletter, The Blinking Cursor, is also available at the site.

The Internet is important to us all. You can help by forwarding this article to the people you care about and, if you are employed, bringing it to the attention of your Information Technology staff, because they may be overwhelmed by this massive attack.

© Steve Freedman, Archer Strategic Alliances, 2005 All Rights Reserved

Steve Freedman Author of "Help! Something's Got Hold of My Computer and It Won't Let Go!" A PC Security eBook for Newbies, Skilled Users and Wizards
http://www.HelpProtectMyComputer.com
Archer Strategic Alliances
http://www.WebPagesThatWork.com

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