Please check your Windows computer to make sure you are getting critical Microsoft patches.
A dangerous virus has been spreading rapidly. Because of a flaw in most Microsoft operating systems, this virus is able to attack without assistance, and if you are not protected you could lose access to all data files on your computer. This means that you don’t have to visit a malicious website, or open an email attachment to get infected. This virus can infect an unpatched Windows computer without you having to do a thing. It only takes a few minutes to make sure you are protected.
More information:
Microsoft Security Bulletin with links to OS patches
Direct links to the patch for current Microsoft operating systems
OS Patches for XP and Vista systems
Please remember that the InfoLine is free to distribute to your friends and family.
What do I need to do to protect myself?
Microsoft released a patch for this vulnerability in March. If your computer is configured to automatically install critical patches, then you are protected. Please confirm that you are installing patches automatically. If you are not, then you should download and install all critical patches.
How do I download and install critical patches on Windows 7 and Windows 10 computers?
Open the HDF tutorial on installing patches available from our Dropbox site. If you are using a different OS, then please contact us for instructions.
Is there a risk to installing critical patches?
Unfortunately, yes. Especially now that Microsoft is pushing out monthly patches in a roll up, you can’t exclude individual patches if they present a problem. There have been problems for certain OS versions/configurations with patches that have been released, so we sometimes delay installing patches until we can confirm that they will do no harm. HOWEVER, this virus is so dangerous that we feel that its danger outweighs these risks.
Should I install the critical patches on my personal computer(s)?
Yes.
I heard that some guy in the UK stopped the virus. So is it over?
No. He found a hidden “kill switch” in the virus and stopped it from spreading. HOWEVER, a new variant has already been released.
Do I need to worry about my MAC, Android, or iPhone?
No. Those are not susceptible to this virus.
I’m running XP or Vista. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. As you know, those OS’s are past end of life, and Microsoft is no longer providing patches for them. However, since this is such a dangerous and widespread virus, they have made and exception. You can still update them using the link to the right.
Can this virus also spread by email?
Yes. This virus can spread through Microsoft’s flaw and also through phishing emails. Please continue to be very vigilante about websites you visit and emails you open.
How did all of this happen?
For the full story, read one of the articles in the links to the right.
All of this scares me. I don’t know what to do and these instructions sound complicated.
Give us a call at HDF, and we will assist you.
If you have questions about this, please let us know and we will be happy to assist you.
Take care,
