Microsoft‘s Internet Explorer is leaving users vulnerable to hackers and other cyber criminals. A recent study conducted by Bromium Labs revealed that Internet Explorer was highly vulnerable when targeted by hackers. Adobe Flash was indicated as a major weakness for Internet Explorer and another prime target for hackers.
Bromium Labs’ report also stated that, “The notable aspect for this year thus far in 2014 is that Internet Explorer was the most patched and also one of the most exploited products, surpassing Oracle Java, Adobe Flash and others in the fray. Bromium Labs believes that the browser will likely continue to be the sweet spot for attackers.”
Microsoft’s Internet Explorer was the target of hacker and cyber criminals far more frequently than other popular browsers like Firefox and Google Chrome. Microsoft acknowledged this fact and has released fixes for as many as 24 vulnerabilities within Internet Explorer.
Bromium Labs reported that hackers are targeting Internet Explorer by deploying a new ‘Zero Day’ attack trend known as “Action Script Spray.” This technique is used to attack Adobe’s Flash application which in turn makes Internet Explorer vulnerable to hacking.
Reportedly Microsoft is well aware of the long list of Internet Explorer flaws.
“We’re aware of the reported issues, one of which has been addressed in newer versions of Internet Explorer,” said a Microsoft spokesperson to The Guardian.
“Each version of Internet Explorer is more secure than the last and contains new and improved security features that help protect customers,” the spokesperson added.
Microsoft Windows is the dominant operating system on computers worldwide. The result is that most people use Internet Explorer almost by default.
Breaking It Down
Most black people use Windows products because it comes pre-loaded on their computer. Apple is popular but lets face it; you’re probably reading this using Microsoft Internet Explorer. You’re also probably using Windows Office at work and home. All these products have security flaws that are very inviting to hackers. So make sure you keep your stuff updated.
Microsoft has struggled to secure its product offerings and Internet Explorer is just another failure that they refuse to acknowledge. Using a browser to get online is a necessity. You can’t use the Internet without it. So the intelligent choice is to switch. Google and Firefox are excellent products and they are somewhat more secure. I say somewhat because none are hack proof. But the fact still remains that Microsoft is too big and too smart to be constantly issuing fixes and patches for its product. The problem is that they are not focused on security. With its power and market share Microsoft can create seismic shifts in Internet security beginning with its browser. Its almost their responsibility to do so. But alas I feel that the mighty Microsoft has struck out again. They should take a lesson from GM, they used to the the biggest car maker. Then look what happened.