Ok, now Adobe has released a security update for Flash, which applies to Flash versions for Windows, Macintosh, Linux, and Android operating systems, as well as Google Chrome and Internet Explorer browsers.
How to keep up with all these security updates? You have several choices.
In the Adobe security bulletin about this Flash vulnerability that you can read at http://www.adobe.com/support/security/bulletins/apsb13-04.html, Adobe recommends that you verify the version of Flash running on your device.
What is Universal Plug and Play? It is a protocol that allows network devices to talk to each other and it often runs on devices unless it is turned off. I have listed a few examples of devices that might have it enabled, which include such devices as home routers, printers, smart TVs, IP cameras, and home automation systems, but there could be many other types of devices that could have it turned on.
The first thing to check is your home router. How do you find out if your router is vulnerable? Rapid7 is a security research firm that has a free website-based tool that will check your router, available here http://upnp-check.rapid7.com/. Click the button “Scan My Router.” You do not have to install any software. It should take about 30 seconds to run.
If you want to check more than your router, there is a program on that page that you can download and run.
There is also a link to a page listing answers to frequently asked questions as well as a link to a more in-depth, technical explanation if you’re interested.
If you have Java running on your computer, you may have noticed that Oracle–maker of Java–has recently put out a security update for Java. This is a good thing and Oracle got the update out earlier than they had anticpated.
However, what you may not have noticed when you installed the update, is that they include what Ed Botts calls “foistware.” This is because Java includes the Browser Add-on from Ask.com when you update Java unless you specifically UNCHECK the box that gives your permission to install it. If you’re not paying attention, you can accidentally install this lousy toolbar. I’m not a big fan of toolbars anyway, and this one is really bad. You can try it out [don’t click on any sites unless you are absolutely sure you know the site] by going to http://www.ask.com/ and searching for something. You will see a lot of ads–a lot of dubious ads.
For more information, read Ed Botts’ column, http://www.zdnet.com/a-close-look-at-how-oracle-installs-deceptive-software-with-java-updates-7000010038/.
The important thing: uninstall the Ask.com toolbar if you installed it.
Intentional Privacy 