Java 7: A Few Security Concerns (and What to Do About It)

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According to an alert issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, Java 7 (Update 10 and earlier) have a vulnerability in its code that can allow a hacker to run malicious software on a Java-enabled computer if that PC accesses a hacked website, or downloads malicious programs.

Oracle has released an update for the program (Java 7 Update 11) that is available as a free download at http://www.java.com.

Some security experts are still concerned about the vulnerability of Java, as this is not the first time hackers have used security holes in the code to exploit systems. Their recommendation? Disable Java on your computer, which can be done a) through the Control Panel,  or b) by uninstalling the Java software from your computer.

Whether you remove Java completely comes down to the basic question of “security v. functionality” all computers face. Removing programs that have security vulnerabilities may help reduce vulnerabilities on your computer, but at the cost of losing some features and functionality of websites and downloaded programs on your machine.

Regardless, Geek Squad recommends practicing safe browsing habitswhenever you are on the Internet, as well protecting your computer by keeping the Operating System updated and having updated antivirus software, as well as keeping your important files (documents, photos, etc) backed up on a routine basis.

If you need assistance in making sure that your computer is up-to-date and protected, connect to our Geek Squad Tech Support team online,stop by a Geek Squad Precinct in a Best Buy store near you, or call 1-800 GEEK SQUAD today.