Since a lot of people on this Daily Kos probably use Internet Explorer, I thought it would be a good idea to give everybody a heads up...
According to an article published at BBC News,many computer industry experts are urging users of Internet Explorer to switch to a different browser until a serious problem has been corrected that allows hackers to take control of people's computers and steal passwords. According to Microsoft, the attacks have occurred against users of IE7, but the security hole is present in all versions.
The article went on to add that as many as 10,000 websites may be affected and that so far, it seems that it is mainly being used to steal game passwords--however, the malicious software could easily be adapted for other, more nefarious purposes.
Users of other browsers are not vulnerable to this flaw. Microsoft, of course, is urging people not to switch, and instead are telling people to change their security settings--despite the fact that "careful browsing" is not enough to protect against this threat and the code could potentially be planted on any website.
Very recently, I finally got sick and tired of Internet Explorer and switched to Firefox after spending an entire day cleaning up an infection on my computer. I would personally recommend that everyone remember to update their antivirus and firewall software--and consider switching browsers, at least for a while.
Here's a few links to help the computer challenged, or those who might not be able to afford to run out and buy new security software:
AVG Antivirus--free, and good, antivirus software
Zone Alarm--free firewall that is much better than Windows firewall
Firefox--a good alternative to Internet Explorer
I also like to use Trend Micro's free online scanner occasionally just to be on the safe side.
Openda has suggested that I also list Google's browser, Chrome, since a lot of people seem to like it.
All joking aside, it would really suck if a fellow Kossack ended up having their bank account raided because some hacker managed to steal their passwords and account information. I can tell you from past experience that it's no fun to deal with some banks after having your identity stolen.