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Microsoft: Latest security fixes thwart NSA hacks


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Folks, the threats are getting intense to the point that Microsoft decided to patch the NSA holes they previously said would not need to be patched. Now get this, Microsoft is issuing a second security patch for Windows XP users world wide. So if you have any ol Windows XP machines around, hook them up and get them all patched too. I know they are doing it to prevent massive successful attacks worldwide, but the same patches are being applied to Windows 8.1 and 10 as well as Windows 7.

Excerpt:

"Microsoft has confirmed its latest round of security patches has fixed three remaining vulnerabilities built by the National Security Agency.

The company confirmed to ZDNet that it had reversed course after saying it would not fix the vulnerabilities, which affect only older operating systems that have since been retired, notably Windows XP and Windows Server 2003.

The release comes as the software giant warned of an "elevated risk for destructive cyberattacks" following last month's ransomware-based cyberattack.

It's the latest twist in a cat and mouse game between the National Security Agency and Microsoft in recent months, after the intelligence lost control of its arsenal of hacking tools.

An unknown hacker group obtained the cache of tools in one of the biggest breaches of classified files since the Edward Snowden revelations.

'These tools allowed NSA analysts to break into a range of systems, network equipment, and firewalls, and most recently, Linux servers and a range of Windows operating systems -- many of which were old and outdated.

The group attempted to auction off the files but failed, and it has been releasing portions of the stolen files in stages.

Microsoft patched the flaws in the April update, but left three exploits remaining. The company said that the flaws only affected older versions of Windows, and users should upgrade.

But after last month's massive WannaCry cyberattack, the company has patched older versions in an effort to avoid another global ransomware attack.

A spokesperson said that the three exploits -- dubbed ENGLISHMANDENTIST, ESTEEMAUDIT, and EXPLODINGCAN -- are now fixed in June's security updates.

Microsoft said that the decision to patch the flaws was a "rare move," adding that it "should not be viewed as a departure from our standard servicing policies."

More, with links, in the article here:

http://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-reverses-course-patches-three-remaining-nsa-exploits-targeting-windows-xp/?loc=newsletter_large_thumb_related&ftag=TREc64629f&bhid=19724681974700635514865380622813

And another article titled "

Microsoft warns of 'destructive cyberattacks,' issues new Windows XP patches: http://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-warns-of-destructive-cyberattacks-issues-new-windows-xp-patches/?loc=newsletter_large_thumb_related&ftag=TREc64629f&bhid=19724681974700635514865380622813

 

RV/Derek
http://www.rvroadie.com Email on the bottom of my website page.
Retired AF 1971-1998


When you see a worthy man, endeavor to emulate him. When you see an unworthy man, look inside yourself. - Confucius

 

“Those who can make you believe absurdities, can make you commit atrocities.” ... Voltaire

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