Oracle has released security updates to address vulnerability in Java SE versions 6, 7, and 8 for Windows.
Exploitation of this vulnerability may allow a remote attacker to take control of an affected system.
Before worrying about an update, however, consider this: If you don't need Java, you can uninstall it. Usually you would only need it for a gaming program or online database that requires Java.
If you determine you don't need it, open the Control Panel, then Programs and Features, then locate all versions of Java on the list; uninstall each. Then close all open programs and reboot your computer.
If you do need Java, you should only need the most current version, unless otherwise indicated by your specific software program that requires it. You can remove all unneeded versions as explained above.
To check if Java is up to date on your system, visit the site below with Internet Explorer or Firefox, and then click the button: Verify Java version. Follow whatever prompts you receive. (The 32-bit Windows online version is fine for most applications. I recommend to not concurrently install third-party applications offered like Yahoo, McAfee etc.)
http://java.com/en/download/installed8.jsp
If you're curious to learn about Java, check this link:
http://java.com/en/download/faq/whatis_java.xml
This may all seem a bit of a hassle, but if you want to keep your computer as secure as possible, either remove Java or keep it updated. This pretty much applies to every program on your computer, whether Windows or Mac, smartphones, tablets, etc.
A good rule of thumb proposed by Brian Krebs, author of the book Spam Nation, is this: 1)If you didn’t go looking for it [software available online for download], don’t install it; 2)if you do want it, keep it updated; 3)if you no longer want it, remove it.
Please feel free to forward this tip to friends, family, colleagues, and others.
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Thanks for reading,
Sam
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