|
|
A flaw in Microsoft Corp.'s Excel spreadsheet could allow criminals to remotely control a computer, the company confirmed earlier this week, according to The Associated Press.
Microsoft, the world's biggest software maker, is aware of just one case in which a user was attacked via the vulnerability, according to an online posting by Mike Reavey, the company's lead security program manager.
In order to become infected, a person must open a maliciously formatted Excel document that is sent via e-mail or other means. The malicious code runs when the spreadsheet is opened. The infection makes it possible for a person to steal passwords, bank accounts and other sensitive information and to use the computer to send spam and carry out other illegal activities.
For more information, go to http://microsoft.com.
or send a letter to the editor.
