Sunday, March 14, 2010

PC Security Tip on Adobe Software Products.

Adobe, a leading software company known for its creative products, has been facing challenges in terms of cybersecurity. During the latter half of 2009, vulnerabilities were detected in several of its applications - Adobe Flash, Adobe Reader, and Adobe Shockwave. These vulnerabilities pose a serious threat as they can grant hackers access and control over the affected systems. Unfortunately, most people are unaware of the importance of updating non-operating system software, leaving these potential exploits unpatched on a majority of personal computers. In this article, we will be discussing the specific versions of Adobe products that are affected and how to address the issue of cybersecurity in regards to Adobe software.

During the last half of 2009, vulnerabilities were found in Adobe Flash, Adobe Reader, and Adobe Shockwave that could allow an attacker to take control of the affected system.

Since most people don’t think to update software that is not directly related to their operating system, these potential exploits remain un-patched on most home computers.

The applications in question are Adobe Flash Player 9.0.159.0 and earlier versions, Adobe Reader and Acrobat 9.1.2 and earlier versions, Adobe Shockwave Player 11.5.0.596 and earlier versions.

In addition to this, vulnerability exists in Adobe Shockwave.  Since very few websites still used Shockwave, I recommend that most users just uninstall Shockwave unless you are certain that you have an application that requires Shockwave or a website that you frequently visit requires Shockwave to work correctly.

To update your software visit these websites and read the download instructions:

http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/

http://get.adobe.com/reader/