Microsoft, Apple, and Adobe Issue Critical Security Updates
Microsoft has released its March Patch Tuesday updates, addressing a total of 13 security bulletins, five of which are critical. Meanwhile, Apple swiftly responded to a ransomware threat targeting Mac users via a popular torrent client. Adobe also issued a security update for its Reader software.
Microsoft's critical updates include MS16-023 for Internet Explorer, MS16-024 for Microsoft Edge on Windows 10, and MS16-029 for Microsoft Word, all of which address vulnerabilities that could lead to Remote Code Execution (RCE). Additionally, MS16-027 for Windows Media Player, MS16-026 for OpenType fonts, and MS16-028 for the PDF Reader in Windows 8 and up also address critical vulnerabilities that could result in RCE.
In a worrying development, the popular torrent client 'Transmission' was temporarily compromised with a ransomware version in March 2016. Hackers released this infected version, marking the first known instance of ransomware targeting OS X users. Apple swiftly responded, removing the malicious version from its App Store within hours.
March Patch Tuesday 2016, following the RSA USA 2016 conference, saw Microsoft addressing a significant number of critical vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, Apple's prompt action in removing the compromised Transmission app from the App Store demonstrates their commitment to user security. Adobe also released an updated version of Adobe Reader, fixing three critical security holes.
