Microsoft has announced an unpatched, serious vulnerability that affects all versions of Internet Explorer (source:). This vulnerability allows the attacker to take control of the infected PC when the user visits a specially crafted or infected website.
All versions of Internet Explorer are vulnerable to this threat, however a solution from Microsoft is available. The TTU IT Division recommends patching your system as quickly as possible in order to protect yourself and your information resources. Instructions for patching your system are as follows:
- Use Windows Update to ensure that all Internet Explorer updates have been installed. Information for installing Windows Updates is available at: askit.ttu.edu/windowsupdate.
- Run the Microsoft Easy Fix tool found at: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3125869 to enable the hardening feature in Internet Explorer. Note that you will have to have administrator rights on the computer and must restart Internet Explorer after running this tool before it will take effect.
The TTU IT Division recommends the following cybersecurity tips to protect yourself and your information resources:
Do not click on links contained within an email unless you are certain of the sender’s identity and expecting the information;
- Do not open attachments unless you are certain of the sender’s identity and expecting the information;
- Delete and do not reply to any of these emails;
- Update your desktop, laptop, and/or mobile device anti-virus software; and
- Keep current on critical system updates:
- Windows Users: Select “Windows Update” from your Windows Control Panel. Additional information for installing Windows Updates is available at: askit.ttu.edu/windowsupdate
- Mac Users: Use Software Update in System Preferences
We encourage you to be vigilant in practicing safe computing. You can find additional Cybersecurity tips online at cybersecurity.ttu.edu. For more information or questions, please contact your local IT expert or an area IT security provider. Some area IT security providers are listed at cybersecurity.ttu.edu under “Additional Resources.”
The Lubbock ITAlert email distribution list is intended to provide timely, critical IT security information for the Lubbock Community. The TTU Office of the CIO thanks the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce for helping to make this community initiative possible. We invite you to share this information with others, as appropriate.
The Cybersecurity Committee of the TTU IT Division has compiled useful information for you at cybersecurity.ttu.edu.
(IT Alert from Texas Tech University IT Division)
