Security news
Security news15 August 2007
Latest Microsoft security holes underline need for Network Access Control, says Sophos NAC can help firms defend against unpatched computers being exploited by hackers
Six of the security bulletins have been rated as critical by Microsoft.
Sophos, a world leader in IT security and control, has advised companies to consider the benefits of Network Access Control (NAC) in light of the announcement of a number of new critical security patches from Microsoft.
As part of its monthly "Patch Tuesday" schedule Microsoft has issued nine new bulletins (six of them described as "critical") about a number of different security vulnerabilities in its software including Microsoft Excel and Internet Explorer. Sophos recommends that organizations roll-out the patches as a matter of urgency, as some of them could enable hackers to access data on a vulnerable PC or run malicious code such as a worm.
"More and more companies are recognizing the importance of ensuring that all computers which connect to their network conform to a defined security policy, which includes having the latest security patches in place," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos. "Network Access Control gives businesses the ability to control who and what is connecting to their systems. If the PC isn't running the patches that you need to secure your business you can prevent it from causing any harm to the rest of your organization. If left unpatched a PC risks bringing spyware or other malicious code right into the heart of your network."
Home users of Microsoft Windows can visit update.microsoft.com to have their systems scanned for Microsoft security vulnerabilities.
Sophos suggests that every IT manager responsible for security should consider subscribing to vulnerability mailing lists such as that operated by Microsoft at www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/notify.mspx.
Sophos continues to recommend companies protect their desktops and servers with automatically updated protection against viruses, spyware, hackers, and spam.
About Sophos
Sophos enables enterprises all over the world to secure and control their IT infrastructure. Sophos's network access control, endpoint, web and email solutions simplify security to provide integrated defenses against malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, data leakage and compliance drift. With over 20 years of experience, Sophos protects over 100 million users in nearly 150 countries with its reliably engineered security solutions and services. Recognized for its high level of customer satisfaction and powerful yet easy-to-use solutions, Sophos has received many industry awards, as well as positive reviews and certifications.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com
