You need to update Internet Explorer right now: Here's why
What's the story
If you haven't seen Microsoft's Internet Explorer in a while, now is the time to search and open the dated browser! We know that sounds a little weird, but the thing is, IE carries a nasty bug, which can be exploited by attackers to run malware on your PC and has to be fixed immediately. Here's all you need to know about the issue.
Issue
Remote code execution vulnerability in IE
According to an emergency warning issued by Microsoft, certain versions of Internet Explorer carry a remote code execution vulnerability. The issue ties to how IE's scripting engine handles memory and leads to memory corruption, creating an opportunity for an unauthorized attacker to run a malicious program on the targeted machine. Meaning, an attacker could exploit this issue to install/run malware on your computer.
Details
Bug replicates system privileges and is already being abused
The issue in question replicates system privileges for the attacker, which means they could get admin rights and use that capability to create more accounts, do more damage. Also, reports indicate that the issue is already being exploited by attackers who have created websites hosting a malicious code to infect visitors. The sites are particularly being targeted at users of IE 9 to 11.
Fix
However, the fix is available to download
Having said that, if you happen to use Internet Explorer regularly or rarely, we recommend installing the emergency patch issued by Microsoft. The fix would be available by Windows Update but can also be installed manually from https://bit.ly/2lrRHly. Once you update, the browser could not be attacked and you can surf the internet without the risk of having your computer compromised.
User base
8% people still use IE
Microsoft is urging users to install this update as a number of people still use IE. Yes, despite the popularity of Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft's own browser Edge, the years' old Internet Explorer browser is being used by around 8% of people, BBC reported. The release of Chromium-based Edge in the future may push these users to switch as well.