Microsoft releases critical security patch

Microsoft has found two new security flaws in its software, including a critical hole that could spread viruses using Jpeg graphics.

Buffer overflow problems when processing the graphics files means Microsoft Windows, Office and developer tools could all be affected, including specific applications such as Internet Explorer, Outlook and Word.

The company has released an urgent security patch to prevent the flaw spreading in the wild, but says to date it has seen no attacks resulting from it.

Mikko Hyppönen, director of antivirus research at F-Secure, told Computing that the flaw is one of the biggest risks he has seen in previous months and advised users to patch immediately.

'All you need to do is access a web site using a vulnerable router or open an email containing a JPEG and you could be compromised,' said Hyppönen.

'But when it does appear it's unlikely to spread in minutes, like the Sasser or Blaster worms, because it involves human interaction,' he says.

'It will fall between network and email worms in terms of severity.'

Microsoft has also issued a patch for its WordPerfect Converter, which is present in certain Microsoft Office programmes.

Security Update for JPEG Processing (GDI+)

WordPerfect Converter Security Update

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See also:

Virus warning hits Windows Media Player

Users urged to be careful when viewing PNG images  11 Feb 2005

Mobile virus epidemic heading this way

Virus writers target handhelds, mobiles ... and your car  10 Feb 2005

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