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Apple released a critical update for the Java implementation on Mac OS X, for both Lion and Snow Leopard. This update comes almost two months after the release of the corresponding Java version by Oracle, and only a couple of days after evidence surfaced that malware authors have been using an included Java flaw (CVE-2012-0507) to attack Mac computers.
Our recommendation: apply the update as quickly as possible.
In addition, Mac users and IT admins for Macs should review whether Java is actually needed for their usage. If not Java can be disabled through the Java Preferences program, just uncheck both 64-bit and 32-bit versions.
Alternatively you can use Google Chrome which has a dialog each time you use a site that uses Java plugins. With the right discipline this can be a very effective measure to avoid attacks.
Yesterday Mozilla included Java in its "blocklisting" approach for Firefox. "Blocklisting" forbids running outdated plug-ins, unless specific approval is given. Unfortunately, this is exclusive for Windows at the moment and is not available on the Mac yet.
Author: Wolfgang Kandek, CTO, Qualys.
Spotlight
Is it time to professionalize information security?
Posted on 23 May 2013. | The issue of whether or not information security professionals should be licensed to practice has already been the topic of many a passionate debate.
Review: Logging and Log Management
Posted on 22 May 2013. | Every security practitioner should be aware of the overwhelming advantages of logging and perusing logs for discovering system intrusions. But logging and log management comes with its own set of difficulties.
Experts highlight top data breach vulnerabilities
Posted on 22 May 2013. | Hidden vulnerabilities lie in everyday activities that can expose personal information and lead to data breach, including buying gas with a credit card or wearing a pacemaker.
A closer look at Mega cloud storage
Posted on 21 May 2013. | Once a novelty, nowadays many cloud storage services are fighting for their piece of the market in the virtual world. Mega offers 50GB of free space with great pricing on Pro accounts.
The CSO perspective on healthcare security and compliance
Posted on 20 May 2013. | Randall Gamby is the CSO of the Medicaid Information Service Center of New York. In this interview he discusses healthcare security and compliance challenges and offers a variety of tips.
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