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Bonn, Germany
The German government agency controlling IT-safety is warning internet users against using Microsoft's Internet Explorer because of a potential security flaw.
The internet security experts at the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommend those using Internet Explorer versions 7, 8, or 9 to shift to a different internet navigation software until the problem is solved.
The agency said that computers vulnerable to attacks are those running on Microsoft Windows XP or Windows 7 operating systems.
The browser is being used by millions of people around the globe.
A statement from Microsoft said that they are aware of the problem and that the current vulnerability is not being exploited en masse, though it is used for a few targeted attacks. The company is working overtime to fill the security gap.
The German agency emphasized that a successful attack will point the users to a malicious web site, for example, through an emailed link. Visiting the website gives hackers code access to take control of the user's computer.
In a blog entry, Microsoft explained how to secure the computer by changing the settings and the installation of the software EMET (Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit). Microsoft urges users to be always vigilant when clicking on links from unknown sources. It added that updating the computer's antivirus program might already help in protecting users against possible attacks.
According to the findings of the BSI, the first indication of the security breach and attack was discovered over the weekend when experts found Trojans loaded in the computer.
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