Microsoft and other technology companies regularly release updates and security fixes for their software. This not only ensures that you get the latest features, but also protects your devices.
Software vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers, resulting in the theft of personal information. In severe cases, your device and all of its files may be held for ransom. Tap or click here to find out the secret to ransomware attacks that hackers don’t want you to know.
Your first line of defense against cyber attacks, whether it’s malware or intrusions, is having reputable antivirus software. Windows 10 comes pre-installed with Microsoft Defender and aims to eliminate any suspicious activity on your system. But a new zero-day flaw has been discovered putting your system at risk.
Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
Microsoft Defender protects you from known threats if you don’t have a paid subscription to antivirus software. But when a zero-day vulnerability is discovered, it triggers a serious alarm.
This is why Microsoft has just released a security patch, to correct a zero-day flaw. Microsoft has started offering the update to users as it rushes to fix the identified threat CVE-2021-1647.
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Hackers have already exploited the remote code execution (RCE) bug that was detected in Microsoft Defender software. The bug helps cybercriminals to trick users into opening a file that contains malicious code. This code can be anything from malware to ransomware.
Security privacy loss
Detailed in the hotfix documentation, Microsoft points out that no further action is required after installing the update. The security patch for this issue and 82 others are all contained in Microsoft Malware Protection Engine.
“The default configuration of Microsoft anti-malware software helps ensure that the malware definitions and Microsoft’s malware protection engine are automatically updated,” the release notes state.
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Analyzes of the bug revealed that while the attack complexity and privileges are low, privacy has been marked as high. Microsoft notes: “There is a complete loss of confidentiality, which results in the disclosure of all the resources of the affected component to the attacker.”
How to update Windows
Updating your system to the latest software versions is of crucial importance. Here’s how to check for updates and download the latest fixes:
- Click it Start icon in the lower left corner of the taskbar
- Click on Settings
- In the next window, click on Update and security
- The first window should be the default Windows Update page
- Click on Check for updates
- If an update is available, click Download and install now
For added peace of mind, configure Microsoft Defender to regularly scan for threats.
- Click it Start icon in the lower left corner of the taskbar
- Tap Settings
- In the next window, press Update and security
- Tap Windows security
- Tap Protection against viruses and threats
- Once the new window appears, select Microsoft Defender Antivirus Options
- Check the box to have Defender regularly scan for threats
Also, make sure that any other antivirus software you use is updated regularly. It’s one of the best ways to stay ahead of the criminals. Tap or click here for the best antivirus options for PC or Mac.
