Microsoft updates workaround for IE bug
Microsoft has updated instructions for a workaround of the Internet Explorer bug that could affect millions of users. The tech giant recently suggested several workarounds on its website, and has updated the advisory on Tuesday to clarify some of the instructions.
IE users who are running a 64-bit version of Windows have been asked to enable Enhanced Protection Mode (EPM). Microsoft says that users who enable EPM on IE 10 and IE 11 will have extra protection against possible hacks. Microsoft has a guide that helps users determine if they are running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows at Support.Microsoft.com.
Versions of Windows have an EPM mode that can be activated include:
Internet Explorer 10
Windows 7
Windows 8
Windows RT
Internet Explorer 11
Windows 7
Windows 8.1
Windows RT 8.1
IE users can also download Microsoft's Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit (EMET), which protects the system by adding special protection and obstacles that a potential hacker must defeat to exploit the vulnerabilities in IE. Microsoft supports only versions 4.0 and 4.1 at this time. The company provides instructions for implementing the EMET on its website.
Microsoft is removing a previous workaround that revises the Access Control List on a Windows file called VGX.DLL. The tech giant says it is removing this advisory because another workaround provides the same results and is easier to implement. The company has released instruction on how to revert changes made to the VGX.DLL file on its website.
Microsoft warned IE users on Saturday that it was aware of "limited, targeted attacks." The company says it is working on a patch to fix the problem. A division of the Department of Homeland Security suggests downloading the EMET software or using another browser until an update becomes available.
