Internet Explorer has security flaw, use these browsers instead on clarkhoward.com

If you're like two-thirds of people, chances are you use Microsoft's Internet Explorer to surf the web. But right now, doing so could pose a serious threat to your computer's safety.

All versions of Internet Explorer have a security flaw that could allow hackers to gain access to your computer. Clark is advising people to stop using Internet Explorer until further notice. Try instead using Firefox or Google's Chrome browser. The consumer champ is particularly fond of the latter, which is designed to take advantage of the entire range of multimedia on today's websites.

Clark's initial warnings about this bug specified that you should not access your bank or brokerage house from Internet Explorer until further notice. But in addition, this flaw potentially allows hackers to take control of your computer and view sensitive e-mail data. So there are also concerns about corporate espionage now.

UPDATE: On Dec. 17, Microsoft issued a "patch" to fix this problem that should eliminate the threat. If your IE browser has the "automatic updates" feature enabled, you will already have the patch downloaded. If you're in doubt, simply follow the instructions from Microsoft for getting this automatic update enabled on your version of IE now.

What others are saying

Google Chrome
I downloaded Google Chrome and liked the speed with which it worked. However, it would not bring up the addresses of those I put in the TO box. Internet Explorer does do this. I called support people and they told me that Yahoo doesn't fully support Google Chrome.
Any suggestions? I believe that Clark Howard uses Yahoo and wonder if he can get his addresses to come up.
I don't want to have to go to the address book each time I type an email.
By Paula @ 01/05/09 08:47:28 PMreport abuse
Google chrome
I downloaded Google chrome and love it. But, I cannot "type" a message in my hotmail box. However, if I use Explorer 6 to go to the hotmail box, I have no problem. Any suggestions?
By Sophie @ 01/02/09 11:57:02 AMreport abuse
Internet Explorer
Some sites I've had to use for work often were designed to work well with only with one browser and most often that has been Microsoft's Internet Explorer. As a result of that observation I make a habit of keeping two or three different browsers on whatever computer I am using and I make sure one is a good working version of Internet Explorer. At present time my primary browser is Firefox, but I also have Internet Explorer, Opera, and Google Chrome. I did add Google Chrome to the mix upon Clark's recommendation, but find that I still must use Internet Explorer for some things even though I'm not overly fond of that particular browser.
I suggest that folks visiting a site that does not work well try visiting the same site while using an alternate browser. Sometimes the problem encountered is simply one of the site being designed to work with one browser.
By Frances C @ 12/25/08 05:58:15 PMreport abuse
Clark is Awesome!
Clark, you are really awesome. Thank you for doing what you do. My wife told me about you and your show... we can't always listen due to work etc. but we have your pod-casts and love your website. YOU have saved us a lot of money with your tips and a lot of grief from the info you provide (rip off alerts, warnings about the IE browser security issues as an example). Just wanted to say Thank You and we hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas! :)
Paul & Jen (from the very cold and snowy Pacific Northwest)
By Paul @ 12/23/08 08:36:33 AMreport abuse
Thank you!
Thank you for the updates!
By Naomi Scott @ 12/20/08 10:18:46 PMreport abuse
Internet Explorer
Thank you so much Mr. Howard . My mom watches your show all the time and she warned me about the internet security flaw. I panicked because I had a project due he next day but I got it done using Google Chrome and received an A on the project. Your great thanks for all you do!!!!!
By Chanel @ 12/20/08 05:35:31 PMreport abuse
"trusted" web sites
@Lynn: even big-name "trusted" websites can get hacked in ways that would cause them to take advantage of a security flaw in your web browser. So, strictly speaking, no web site is 100% safe.
By Ben D. @ 12/19/08 02:03:41 PMreport abuse
Using a LiveCD
@Grumpy Old Man: I hope you have your LiveCD set up not to automatically log you in as "root". Otherwise, your LiveCD has complete and unrestricted access to your hard drive.
By Ben D. @ 12/19/08 02:01:00 PMreport abuse
INTERNET EXPLORER SECURITY FLAW
Stop using IE. Download and install a free copy of FireFox 3 and/or other equally good browsers such as Opera or Safari for Windows. FireFox is more secure and faster than lame-butt IE. Just Google or Yahoo FireFox and you'll find the FireFox HomePage. Download from there.
By Larry Martin @ 12/19/08 12:38:47 PMreport abuse
RE: Scott Costello
Your pop-up blocker may be preventing you from accessing the link. Try turning it off. More info on how to do so can be found here:
http://clarkhoward.com/listen/popup_disable.html
By Team Clark @ 12/19/08 10:38:17 AMreport abuse
HELP!
IF my computer wont even go on line how am I supposed to get foxfire or any other browser?
By T Allen @ 12/18/08 08:43:37 PMreport abuse
Microsoft "Gotcha" ...
The Microsoft site will not allow a download of the patch with anything other than IE. So you must use IE to downloaded the patch while advised to not even open IE. Thanks again, Microsoft.
By Bob @ 12/18/08 07:08:33 PMreport abuse
instructions from microsoft on your site not working
if you click on instructions nothing happens.
wont go to instructions
By scott costello @ 12/18/08 06:11:15 PMreport abuse
Clark Howard
Thankyou so much for all you and your staff does for us normal folks!! Now hurry up and run for office!!
By Jeremy @ 12/18/08 04:58:50 PMreport abuse
Proof up your PC
There's a wonderful free program that will scan all your installed programs, media players, Java versions, web browsers, etc and tell you if you they need to be updated and give you a direct link to do this. Its called the
Secunia Personal Software Inspector (PSI)
http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scanning/personal/

Tonight I ran it and found that yes there was an IE security update, but also a Firefox, Opera browser, Java update, VLC media player update. So I updated them all in about 15 mins. Run Secunia PSI about once a month and your programs will be up-to-date, secure and you'll LOVE it! One of the best programs ever!

After you've updated your Java version to the latest, you'll want to uninstall the previous versions of Java taking up about 100MB's of space on your PC. The tool for this is JavaRa - its free at http://raproducts.org/
By Keith @ 12/17/08 08:48:34 PMreport abuse
Blame Microsoft, not Clark
Guys, guys,
It's MICROSOFT themselves who warned you to temporarily suspend use of their browser. Trust me, they wouldn't have issued that warning if the thread hadn't been serious. Clark was doing his job to clue us in to the problem.

They've put a link up to the security fix. I just did it, it's just a couple quick steps.

And for anyone really thinking there's conspiracy regarding the Google ads: that's how they work. Google "looks" for words on a web page and automatically populates the ad block with similar ads. So if we're discussing Chrome, and Chrome is an advertiser--yup, it shows up in the box. Pretty smart of Google, huh?
By Pete W. @ 12/17/08 05:28:27 PMreport abuse
Obvious bias
The obvious bias is there. You have Google as your search bar on your site. You have adds from GoogleChrome. You also are telling people to stop using IE because of a security threat. I hate IE, but man, don't scare simple users. I have many people call for technical support afraid of viruses and that IE is dangerous. It is not. It is the most widely used browser and gets the most attacks. Repeat, I don't like IE, but it is universally used and to scare non technical people to install software is reckless and ignorant.
By HDK @ 12/17/08 04:06:44 PMreport abuse
Opera!
Recommending Chrome and Firefox over Opera? For shame. Opera is more secure, and just plain better. Try it for a week, and you will see.
By Wes @ 12/17/08 02:56:30 PMreport abuse
Patch Out
I would say the best thing to do is to just patch your IE since the patch is out now. No need to change your entire Web Experiece because there is an issue that comes out. These other 2 browsers have their own issue too.
By Educated Person @ 12/17/08 02:06:28 PMreport abuse
chrome
chrome will not download to XP windows unless you have 2 pack???
By walt @ 12/17/08 01:17:57 PMreport abuse
And the others annouce today they have issues
Both Firefox and Opera released updates to their browsers because of issues. http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.atom
By Jake @ 12/17/08 11:56:10 AMreport abuse
Crash
I feel it important to post to this group that I installed both programs on my computer that were recommeded. The first, Chrome took away all emailing capability, and Firefox crashed my system!!!!!! I am emailing from my work computer, and we have Internet Explorer. Things are running very smoothly here today, and I have a huge headache to now deal with on my home computer - great advice Clark!
By Ray @ 12/17/08 11:49:47 AMreport abuse
Chrome and hotmail: Cannot send email!
Help! I installed Chrome as Clark suggested. However, I cannot send email, reply or forward email.
By J @ 12/17/08 11:42:10 AMreport abuse
Chrome vs. IE
Just remember that Chrome is still a BETA and has it's own problems to work out. When installing anything on a PC, Microsoft will compete with it for resources, usually wins, and causes aggravation in the meantime. Best to talk to your available IT professional or give a holler to Vision or Rent-A-Geek, etc. before panicking and peforming tech solutions suggested by someone whose talent (albeit FABulously talented) is consumer advocacy. :)
By Tami S @ 12/17/08 11:35:49 AMreport abuse
Chrome?
I'm not sure if everyone read the link that was posted, but it says that Chrome rated the worst of the security browsers. So you may want to consider the top two. Don't use Chrome if it has the same ranking as IE!!!

From Article:
"The latter [Opera] scored highest in a recent set of tests of how browsers deal with password security, by security consultants Chapin Information Services. Firefox came second with IE mid-table. Google's new browser, Chrome, and Safari 3.2 for Windows tied in last place."
By IT Reader @ 12/17/08 11:14:09 AMreport abuse
chrome rocks
I am so not pc literate and don't like changes but Chrome is so cool and the initial load is so much quicker than IE
By Jake @ 12/17/08 10:09:53 AMreport abuse
Trend Micro
Trend Micro was the first to call attention to this latest IE flaw. This is an excellent internet security company and I seriously doubt they'd send up flags if it weren't true!
By ErinGB @ 12/17/08 09:11:49 AMreport abuse
IE (Internet Explorer)
I am known as the computer go to person in the office, but this situation stumps me. Can't I still just use google.com, aolsearch.com or yahoo.com??? Why is Clark and everyone saying GoogleChrome,GoogleChrome, GoogleChrome only?!?!

I hope Clark explains it more on his next program.
By Lynn @ 12/17/08 12:29:13 AMreport abuse
Malware
This is a tempest in a teapot. Anybody who's really worried about malware should use a Linux Live CD (or DVD). It doesn't access the hard drive. Every time you boot up, you're starting over fresh, as if you're starting up a brand new computer.
By Grumpy Old Man @ 12/16/08 10:36:58 PMreport abuse
IE Browser
If you convert to a Mac it will solve 90% of your computer problems!!!
By Heather @ 12/16/08 10:06:20 PMreport abuse
Problem with media player
I am unable to use Netflix with Mozzila Firefox and Chrome. It tells me to use IE. Is it safe to use IE for Watching Netflix? Or should I not even open IE at all.
By Frank B. @ 12/16/08 09:54:32 PMreport abuse
IE Browser
I find it quite interesting that on the show notes page re: the IE Browser threat/panic, that a Google advertisement is conveniently offering a download to Chrome. Coincendental?
By michael @ 12/16/08 08:32:20 PMreport abuse
Chrome
After doing some research and feeling the better to be safe than sorry cliche coming on I decided to download Chrome. I am a housewife with just a side of geek having formarly worked in the PC industry and so far I like Chrome ALOT! No lock ups, seems to load faster, and my kids didn't seem to notice the difference. Thanks Clark! For looking out for us and letting us know our options.
By JMD @ 12/16/08 08:20:41 PMreport abuse
Yeah, Clark is out to take down Microsoft by warning us not to use it IE. Clever, Clark! Riiiiight...

No folks, this is a legitimate threat- I became aware of it yesterday as my organization handles a great deal of private data. Sometimes we shrug off "the sky is falling" threats that circulate. We aren't shrugging off this one. While other browsers have holes too, the number of people using IE makes this a greater threat.
By Scott @ 12/16/08 06:05:16 PMreport abuse
David, with due respect, what you're saying doesn't really seem relevant. Clark didn't make this topic up, he is reiterating a specific, known bug that Microsoft issued a warning about. One that they have no fix for yet.

And incidentally, there may indeed be more flaws patched to date for the IE, but that's mainly due to the fact that more bugs and exploits have been written for this browser than any others. Overwhelmingly more than the other browsers, so of course there would need to be more fixes necessary. I don't hate IE, I use it plenty, but I personally would never use it for transmitting sensitive information. Too many hackers targeting it. And who can stay on top of always having the latest "patches" installed?
By anonymous @ 12/16/08 05:10:53 PMreport abuse
NEI
Not Enough Information. After attempting to alarm his listerners to the "serious threat", Clark failed to say what could be done if one had already been using IE browsers before hearing his warning - should I close out bank/brokerage accounts accessed earlier, etc. I called Vanguard and my bank and they said they had no knowledge of the problem so I assume it is not as "serious" as Clark seemed to imply.
And since I go to all my financial, and many other, sites via my favorites folder(which Clark recommends)what am I to do now using Firefox where my favorites are not accessible. I need to pay my bills on-line in the next couple of days. I wonder if Clark is, indeed, exhibiting his bias against Internet Explorer by giving such an alarmist message.
By John @ 12/16/08 04:55:58 PMreport abuse
Chrome
Doesn'Google use Chrome to track peoples viewing habits?
By brad @ 12/16/08 04:53:41 PMreport abuse
Firefox and Chrome are nice
Yes a browser is not he answer to all security problems. I think I like Firefox and Chrome more because they are much more innovative. IE is Microsoft and ships with windows so they have less reason to care about new features and security holes because they have such a large amount of the market.
By JD @ 12/16/08 04:41:46 PMreport abuse
Secunia.com
It is that more unpatched flaws exist for the solutions proposed by Clark! Surf smart - stay safe.
By David @ 12/16/08 04:17:37 PMreport abuse
The risk is real
Actually, even Microsoft themselves verify that this is a real threat. It should be patched soon, but for now, why on earth risk it? The fact remains that at this point in time more viruses and exploits exist for IE than any other browser. Someone references secunia.com below-- here is their warning, specifically referring to this issue: http://secunia.com/advisories/33089/
By Pete W. @ 12/16/08 03:44:27 PMreport abuse
IE Security Issue
I'm sorry but Clark is so right about this one!

http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/111811
By Susan @ 12/16/08 03:40:14 PMreport abuse
They All Have Flaws
Clark needs to do his homework. All of these browsers have security flaws. Use a firewall and you'll most likely be fine.
By Nessy @ 12/16/08 03:28:28 PMreport abuse
The sky is falling !!!
I think Clark has a virus! Stop listening to him until his crazy talk stops!!! www.secunia.com an independent security entity seems to indicate that Clark is just mad at Microsoft for some personal reason. The two alternative browsers Clark wishes everyone to use have more unpatched flaws than the one (Internet Explorer) he is afraid of :)
By David @ 12/16/08 03:26:36 PMreport abuse
Additional reading:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7784908.stm

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/961051.mspx
By Admin @ 12/16/08 03:24:14 PMreport abuse
IE flaw
Oh come on. Please stop the "sky is falling" nonsense. There are gaps in security in every browser and you are making the non-geek folks panic.
By Laura @ 12/16/08 03:07:27 PMreport abuse
IE Virus
I have searched all the usual sources and can find no mention of the IE virus except on your site on the MS link from your site. Is this real or are you letting yourself be used as a Google marketing tool?
By Russ Lewis @ 12/16/08 02:50:59 PMreport abuse
Google's Chrome
Initally, to this non-geek, this seemed complicated; however, after playing around with Chrome, it's really a neat piece of software. Seems to work faster, too. Thanks, Clark
By Nancy @ 12/16/08 02:49:27 PMreport abuse

Google Chrome

I downloaded Google Chrome and liked the speed with which it worked. However, it would not bring up the addresses of those I put in the TO box. Internet Explorer does do this. I called support people and they told me that Yahoo doesn't fully support Google Chrome.
Any suggestions? I believe that Clark Howard uses Yahoo and wonder if he can get his addresses to come up.
I don't want to have to go to the address book each time I type an email.

By Paula @ 01/05/09 08:47:28 PMreport abuse

Google chrome

I downloaded Google chrome and love it. But, I cannot "type" a message in my hotmail box. However, if I use Explorer 6 to go to the hotmail box, I have no problem. Any suggestions?

By Sophie @ 01/02/09 11:57:02 AMreport abuse

Internet Explorer

Some sites I've had to use for work often were designed to work well with only with one browser and most often that has been Microsoft's Internet Explorer. As a result of that observation I make a habit of keeping two or three different browsers on whatever computer I am using and I make sure one is a good working version of Internet Explorer. At present time my primary browser is Firefox, but I also have Internet Explorer, Opera, and Google Chrome. I did add Google Chrome to the mix upon Clark's recommendation, but find that I still must use Internet Explorer for some things even though I'm not overly fond of that particular browser.
I suggest that folks visiting a site that does not work well try visiting the same site while using an alternate browser. Sometimes the problem encountered is simply one of the site being designed to work with one browser.

By Frances C @ 12/25/08 05:58:15 PMreport abuse

Clark is Awesome!

Clark, you are really awesome. Thank you for doing what you do. My wife told me about you and your show... we can't always listen due to work etc. but we have your pod-casts and love your website. YOU have saved us a lot of money with your tips and a lot of grief from the info you provide (rip off alerts, warnings about the IE browser security issues as an example). Just wanted to say Thank You and we hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas! :)
Paul & Jen (from the very cold and snowy Pacific Northwest)

By Paul @ 12/23/08 08:36:33 AMreport abuse

Thank you!

Thank you for the updates!

By Naomi Scott @ 12/20/08 10:18:46 PMreport abuse

Thank you so much Mr. Howard . My mom watches your show all the time and she warned me about the internet security flaw. I panicked because I had a project due he next day but I got it done using Google Chrome and received an A on the project. Your great thanks for all you do!!!!!

By Chanel @ 12/20/08 05:35:31 PMreport abuse

"trusted" web sites

@Lynn: even big-name "trusted" websites can get hacked in ways that would cause them to take advantage of a security flaw in your web browser. So, strictly speaking, no web site is 100% safe.

By Ben D. @ 12/19/08 02:03:41 PMreport abuse

Using a LiveCD

@Grumpy Old Man: I hope you have your LiveCD set up not to automatically log you in as "root". Otherwise, your LiveCD has complete and unrestricted access to your hard drive.

By Ben D. @ 12/19/08 02:01:00 PMreport abuse

INTERNET EXPLORER SECURITY FLAW

Stop using IE. Download and install a free copy of FireFox 3 and/or other equally good browsers such as Opera or Safari for Windows. FireFox is more secure and faster than lame-butt IE. Just Google or Yahoo FireFox and you'll find the FireFox HomePage. Download from there.

By Larry Martin @ 12/19/08 12:38:47 PMreport abuse

RE: Scott Costello

Your pop-up blocker may be preventing you from accessing the link. Try turning it off. More info on how to do so can be found here:
http://clarkhoward.com/listen/popup_disable.html

By Team Clark @ 12/19/08 10:38:17 AMreport abuse

HELP!

IF my computer wont even go on line how am I supposed to get foxfire or any other browser?

By T Allen @ 12/18/08 08:43:37 PMreport abuse

Microsoft "Gotcha" ...

The Microsoft site will not allow a download of the patch with anything other than IE. So you must use IE to downloaded the patch while advised to not even open IE. Thanks again, Microsoft.

By Bob @ 12/18/08 07:08:33 PMreport abuse

instructions from microsoft on your site not working

if you click on instructions nothing happens.
wont go to instructions

By scott costello @ 12/18/08 06:11:15 PMreport abuse

Clark Howard

Thankyou so much for all you and your staff does for us normal folks!! Now hurry up and run for office!!

By Jeremy @ 12/18/08 04:58:50 PMreport abuse

Proof up your PC

There's a wonderful free program that will scan all your installed programs, media players, Java versions, web browsers, etc and tell you if you they need to be updated and give you a direct link to do this. Its called the
Secunia Personal Software Inspector (PSI)
http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scanning/personal/

Tonight I ran it and found that yes there was an IE security update, but also a Firefox, Opera browser, Java update, VLC media player update. So I updated them all in about 15 mins. Run Secunia PSI about once a month and your programs will be up-to-date, secure and you'll LOVE it! One of the best programs ever!

After you've updated your Java version to the latest, you'll want to uninstall the previous versions of Java taking up about 100MB's of space on your PC. The tool for this is JavaRa - its free at http://raproducts.org/

By Keith @ 12/17/08 08:48:34 PMreport abuse

Blame Microsoft, not Clark

Guys, guys,
It's MICROSOFT themselves who warned you to temporarily suspend use of their browser. Trust me, they wouldn't have issued that warning if the thread hadn't been serious. Clark was doing his job to clue us in to the problem.

They've put a link up to the security fix. I just did it, it's just a couple quick steps.

And for anyone really thinking there's conspiracy regarding the Google ads: that's how they work. Google "looks" for words on a web page and automatically populates the ad block with similar ads. So if we're discussing Chrome, and Chrome is an advertiser--yup, it shows up in the box. Pretty smart of Google, huh?

By Pete W. @ 12/17/08 05:28:27 PMreport abuse

Obvious bias

The obvious bias is there. You have Google as your search bar on your site. You have adds from GoogleChrome. You also are telling people to stop using IE because of a security threat. I hate IE, but man, don't scare simple users. I have many people call for technical support afraid of viruses and that IE is dangerous. It is not. It is the most widely used browser and gets the most attacks. Repeat, I don't like IE, but it is universally used and to scare non technical people to install software is reckless and ignorant.

By HDK @ 12/17/08 04:06:44 PMreport abuse

Opera!

Recommending Chrome and Firefox over Opera? For shame. Opera is more secure, and just plain better. Try it for a week, and you will see.

By Wes @ 12/17/08 02:56:30 PMreport abuse

Patch Out

I would say the best thing to do is to just patch your IE since the patch is out now. No need to change your entire Web Experiece because there is an issue that comes out. These other 2 browsers have their own issue too.

By Educated Person @ 12/17/08 02:06:28 PMreport abuse

chrome

chrome will not download to XP windows unless you have 2 pack???

By walt @ 12/17/08 01:17:57 PMreport abuse

And the others annouce today they have issues

Both Firefox and Opera released updates to their browsers because of issues. http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.atom

By Jake @ 12/17/08 11:56:10 AMreport abuse

Crash

I feel it important to post to this group that I installed both programs on my computer that were recommeded. The first, Chrome took away all emailing capability, and Firefox crashed my system!!!!!! I am emailing from my work computer, and we have Internet Explorer. Things are running very smoothly here today, and I have a huge headache to now deal with on my home computer - great advice Clark!

By Ray @ 12/17/08 11:49:47 AMreport abuse

Chrome and hotmail: Cannot send email!

Help! I installed Chrome as Clark suggested. However, I cannot send email, reply or forward email.

By J @ 12/17/08 11:42:10 AMreport abuse

Chrome vs. IE

Just remember that Chrome is still a BETA and has it's own problems to work out. When installing anything on a PC, Microsoft will compete with it for resources, usually wins, and causes aggravation in the meantime. Best to talk to your available IT professional or give a holler to Vision or Rent-A-Geek, etc. before panicking and peforming tech solutions suggested by someone whose talent (albeit FABulously talented) is consumer advocacy. :)

By Tami S @ 12/17/08 11:35:49 AMreport abuse

Chrome?

I'm not sure if everyone read the link that was posted, but it says that Chrome rated the worst of the security browsers. So you may want to consider the top two. Don't use Chrome if it has the same ranking as IE!!!

From Article:
"The latter [Opera] scored highest in a recent set of tests of how browsers deal with password security, by security consultants Chapin Information Services. Firefox came second with IE mid-table. Google's new browser, Chrome, and Safari 3.2 for Windows tied in last place."

By IT Reader @ 12/17/08 11:14:09 AMreport abuse

chrome rocks

I am so not pc literate and don't like changes but Chrome is so cool and the initial load is so much quicker than IE

By Jake @ 12/17/08 10:09:53 AMreport abuse

Trend Micro

Trend Micro was the first to call attention to this latest IE flaw. This is an excellent internet security company and I seriously doubt they'd send up flags if it weren't true!

By ErinGB @ 12/17/08 09:11:49 AMreport abuse

IE (Internet Explorer)

I am known as the computer go to person in the office, but this situation stumps me. Can't I still just use google.com, aolsearch.com or yahoo.com??? Why is Clark and everyone saying GoogleChrome,GoogleChrome, GoogleChrome only?!?!

I hope Clark explains it more on his next program.

By Lynn @ 12/17/08 12:29:13 AMreport abuse

Malware

This is a tempest in a teapot. Anybody who's really worried about malware should use a Linux Live CD (or DVD). It doesn't access the hard drive. Every time you boot up, you're starting over fresh, as if you're starting up a brand new computer.

By Grumpy Old Man @ 12/16/08 10:36:58 PMreport abuse

IE Browser

If you convert to a Mac it will solve 90% of your computer problems!!!

By Heather @ 12/16/08 10:06:20 PMreport abuse

Problem with media player

I am unable to use Netflix with Mozzila Firefox and Chrome. It tells me to use IE. Is it safe to use IE for Watching Netflix? Or should I not even open IE at all.

By Frank B. @ 12/16/08 09:54:32 PMreport abuse

I find it quite interesting that on the show notes page re: the IE Browser threat/panic, that a Google advertisement is conveniently offering a download to Chrome. Coincendental?

By michael @ 12/16/08 08:32:20 PMreport abuse

Chrome

After doing some research and feeling the better to be safe than sorry cliche coming on I decided to download Chrome. I am a housewife with just a side of geek having formarly worked in the PC industry and so far I like Chrome ALOT! No lock ups, seems to load faster, and my kids didn't seem to notice the difference. Thanks Clark! For looking out for us and letting us know our options.

By JMD @ 12/16/08 08:20:41 PMreport abuse

Yeah, Clark is out to take down Microsoft by warning us not to use it IE. Clever, Clark! Riiiiight...

No folks, this is a legitimate threat- I became aware of it yesterday as my organization handles a great deal of private data. Sometimes we shrug off "the sky is falling" threats that circulate. We aren't shrugging off this one. While other browsers have holes too, the number of people using IE makes this a greater threat.

By Scott @ 12/16/08 06:05:16 PMreport abuse

David, with due respect, what you're saying doesn't really seem relevant. Clark didn't make this topic up, he is reiterating a specific, known bug that Microsoft issued a warning about. One that they have no fix for yet.

And incidentally, there may indeed be more flaws patched to date for the IE, but that's mainly due to the fact that more bugs and exploits have been written for this browser than any others. Overwhelmingly more than the other browsers, so of course there would need to be more fixes necessary. I don't hate IE, I use it plenty, but I personally would never use it for transmitting sensitive information. Too many hackers targeting it. And who can stay on top of always having the latest "patches" installed?

By anonymous @ 12/16/08 05:10:53 PMreport abuse

NEI

Not Enough Information. After attempting to alarm his listerners to the "serious threat", Clark failed to say what could be done if one had already been using IE browsers before hearing his warning - should I close out bank/brokerage accounts accessed earlier, etc. I called Vanguard and my bank and they said they had no knowledge of the problem so I assume it is not as "serious" as Clark seemed to imply.
And since I go to all my financial, and many other, sites via my favorites folder(which Clark recommends)what am I to do now using Firefox where my favorites are not accessible. I need to pay my bills on-line in the next couple of days. I wonder if Clark is, indeed, exhibiting his bias against Internet Explorer by giving such an alarmist message.

By John @ 12/16/08 04:55:58 PMreport abuse

Doesn'Google use Chrome to track peoples viewing habits?

By brad @ 12/16/08 04:53:41 PMreport abuse

Firefox and Chrome are nice

Yes a browser is not he answer to all security problems. I think I like Firefox and Chrome more because they are much more innovative. IE is Microsoft and ships with windows so they have less reason to care about new features and security holes because they have such a large amount of the market.

By JD @ 12/16/08 04:41:46 PMreport abuse

Secunia.com

It is that more unpatched flaws exist for the solutions proposed by Clark! Surf smart - stay safe.

By David @ 12/16/08 04:17:37 PMreport abuse

The risk is real

Actually, even Microsoft themselves verify that this is a real threat. It should be patched soon, but for now, why on earth risk it? The fact remains that at this point in time more viruses and exploits exist for IE than any other browser. Someone references secunia.com below-- here is their warning, specifically referring to this issue: http://secunia.com/advisories/33089/

By Pete W. @ 12/16/08 03:44:27 PMreport abuse

IE Security Issue

I'm sorry but Clark is so right about this one!

http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/111811

By Susan @ 12/16/08 03:40:14 PMreport abuse

They All Have Flaws

Clark needs to do his homework. All of these browsers have security flaws. Use a firewall and you'll most likely be fine.

By Nessy @ 12/16/08 03:28:28 PMreport abuse

The sky is falling !!!

I think Clark has a virus! Stop listening to him until his crazy talk stops!!! www.secunia.com an independent security entity seems to indicate that Clark is just mad at Microsoft for some personal reason. The two alternative browsers Clark wishes everyone to use have more unpatched flaws than the one (Internet Explorer) he is afraid of :)

By David @ 12/16/08 03:26:36 PMreport abuse

Additional reading:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7784908.stm

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/advisory/961051.mspx

By Admin @ 12/16/08 03:24:14 PMreport abuse

IE flaw

Oh come on. Please stop the "sky is falling" nonsense. There are gaps in security in every browser and you are making the non-geek folks panic.

By Laura @ 12/16/08 03:07:27 PMreport abuse

IE Virus

I have searched all the usual sources and can find no mention of the IE virus except on your site on the MS link from your site. Is this real or are you letting yourself be used as a Google marketing tool?

By Russ Lewis @ 12/16/08 02:50:59 PMreport abuse

Google's Chrome

Initally, to this non-geek, this seemed complicated; however, after playing around with Chrome, it's really a neat piece of software. Seems to work faster, too. Thanks, Clark

By Nancy @ 12/16/08 02:49:27 PMreport abuse

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Dec 16, 2008 -- Internet Explorer has security flaw, use these browsers instead

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