HP 'Quick Launch' Threat
More than 80 models of HP laptops have a security glitch in the included HP software for letting you configure quick-launch buttons. The flaw could allow an attacker to take complete control of your PC, if you are tricked into visiting the bad guy's Web site first. With proof-of-concept code out on the Web, HP released an update that disables the quick-launch software, called Info Center. Until the company issues a more complete fix, you can't use the buttons, but at least you'll be protected. If your laptop has HP Info Center, you must manually download and install the update.
Office 2007 Service Pack
The first service pack for Office 2007 is out, and it includes previous security patches, performance updates, and most hotfixes for Office 2007, as well as specific fixes for other annoyances. For instance, SP1 includes a patch meant to improve the performance of Outlook when you're working with large message folders. You should see fewer unexplained crashes as well.
Adobe Patches Flash
Adobe patched a passel of holes in its Flash Player. All of the player's supported platforms--Mac, Linux, Windows (yes, Vista too)--are vulnerable. Getting stung is as easy as visiting a site with a booby-trapped banner ad or clicking on an SWF (Shockwave Flash) file. Adobe is urging upgrades to the newest (patched) version, 9.0.115.0.
Bugged?
Found a hardware or software bug? Send us an e-mail on it to bugs@pcworld.com.
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