Germany and France warn against Internet Explorer use
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European nations warn users to avoid Microsoft browser after security flaw was exploited in Google cyberattack
The German and French governments have advised against using Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser in the wake of a major cyberattack on Google and other organisations last month.
Microsoft admitted last week that the December attack exploited a security issue in older versions of the software, but insisted that there was no risk from using the latest releases, Internet Explorer 8 and 9.
Despite this, Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security wrote on its official website that even running the most up to date version of the browser in ‘Safety Mode’ cannot guarantee security, instead suggesting that users download an alternative. France’s CERTA agency, which monitors foreign cyber threats, issued a similar statement, urging users to switch to a different browser until the issue is resolved.
Microsoft has defended its browser, suggesting that similar flaws could exist in rival software, such as Mozilla Firefox and Google's Chrome. “It is important to note that all software has vulnerabilities and switching browsers in an attempt to protect against these highly publicised, but currently limited attacks, can inadvertently create some false sense of security,” the company responded in a statement.
Internet Explorer is currently the world’s most popular browser, with a 62.7% market share, followed by Mozilla Firefox at 24.6%, and Google’s Chrome with 4.6% of users.
Microsoft IE8, Firefox or Google Chrome
The recent announcements made by the French and German governments warning users to find an alternative to Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 6 (IE6) amidst apparent security risks associated with the browser, could prove fruitful for UK IT-aware businesses. Not only will the warning provoke a greater level of conscientious thought for IT security, but it could also act as a catalyst for businesses wishing to move their technology on and maximise on services optimised for this technology.
For most businesses, protecting IT security is of paramount importance, especially for those organisations working in a virtualised environment. In light of the news surrounding the security risks associated with IE6, could this be the time to get ahead of the game and look to upgrade to Microsoft Internet Explorer 8, or other browsers such as Firefox or Google Chrome, as suggested?
A move like this is simple and allows businesses to not only to reap the benefits of the new technology and prevent a potential security issue, but also receive additional functions when selecting tailor-made business applications designed to work specifically with the most up-to-date technology and can provide the advantages of this to the business.
Yours Sincerely,
Nick Thompson
Report this comment »Managing Director
DCSL Software
www.dcslsoftware.com