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Microsoft issues emergency Internet Explorer update, even for XP users

Microsoft issues emergency Internet Explorer update, even for XP users
Lewis Leong

Lewis Leong

  • Updated:

Even though Windows XP was discontinued last month, Microsoft is issuing an emergency security patch for its users. The security hole was discovered on Monday, and allows an attacker to run unauthorized code on a user’s machine. All versions of Internet Explorer are affected, from version 6 to 11. While Microsoft says the vulnerability is “overblown,” it has issued a patch in record time to protect its users.

Although XP users are included in this update for Internet Explorer, the company is still encouraging XP users to upgrade to Windows 7 or 8.1.

“Just because this update is out now doesn’t mean you should stop thinking about getting off Windows XP and moving to a newer version of Windows and the latest version of Internet Explorer,” writes Microsoft Trustworthy Computing group General Manager Adrienne Hall.

This patch for Windows XP is an exception to the rule, so don’t expect Microsoft to support XP any further.

The patch has been rolling out since 10:00AM PT today. Users who have automatic updates enabled won’t have to do anything. If you want to check for the update manually, click on Control Panel, Windows Update, and then “Check for Updates.”

Check out our handy FAQ for more information about the discontinuation of Windows XP and what you can do to protect yourself.

Source: The Official Microsoft Blog

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