I wanted to post a warning to everyone out there that there is currently a nasty bit of malware going around that exploits a vulnerability in the flash player. Flash is used to play videos online and display advertisements. This vulnerability allows hackers to compromise websites as well as create malicious advertisements that can install malware on your PC. So when you go to a legitimate website you might end up with this nasty piece of malware. Adobe Flash has released a few updates to fix the issue, but they’re not certain they patched everything so expect another update soon. What can you do to help prevent getting this malware in the meantime?

1. Make sure to update your adobe flash player. When doing so, deselect their “optional offer” for McAfee Security Scan Plus. This is an antivirus program that many of you don’t need and I don’t recommend.
2. You can also disable the flash player for the next couple of days. This will make sure they have time to patch the exploit and ensure that you don’t get any malware.
   1. If you use chrome type “chrome://plugins” in the url window, then select “adobe flash player” and click the disable button. After a few days, re-patch in step 1 and it will be enabled and up-to-date.

I have already been contacted by several individuals who are having issues related to this vulnerability so be careful when you’re browsing for the next couple of days. With any luck Adobe Flash will be updated and we will have one less thing to worry about.