Want to shield your computer from hackers? Slate technology writer Will Oremus has one tip: disable Java. If you do not know, Java is software that runs interactive functions on some web pages. The software has been roundly criticized for being an open door of sorts to hackers. In a recent story, for instance, Business Insider pointed to the 700,000 Apple computers contaminated earlier this year with the Flashback Trojan malware. All of these computers were running out-of-date versions of add-ons that let their web browsers run Java. An effective way, then, to protect your computer? Oremus says it is all about disabling Java.
Security flaw
Hackers recently identified a defect in Oracle’s Java software that permitted these cyber criminals to break into users’ computers and install malware. At the time, the threat was considered a “zero-day” one, meaning a threat that uses a vulnerability that wasn’t previously known and for which no fix can be obtained. Since the security hole was discovered, Oracle launched a new version of Java that the developer says fixes the weakness. But the truth remains: Hackers frequently use Java to break into users’ computers. Turning it off, then, makes the most sense, particularly since Java is no longer required for the vast majority of websites.
Turning off Java
Turning off Java requires different steps depending upon what web browser you use. In Firefox users must first select “tools” from their browser’s main menu. They should then click “add-ons” and the disable buttons next to any Java plug-ins.
Safari users must first click “Safari” in the main menu bar and then “Preferences.” Once they’ve done this, they can select the “security” tab and make sure that the button next to “enable Java” is not checked.
Google Chrome users need to type “Chrome://Plugins” in their browser’s address bar. They can then click the “disable” button listed below any Java plug-ins.
Don’t touch JavaScript
One thing you must keep in mind when you go to disable Java is that Java and Javascript are very different things. Most websites use Javascript, so be sure that you do not disable it accidentally.
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