Microsoft yesterday released a Windows update that patches a vulnerability that could be used for attacks similar to the WannaCry ransomware outbreak. Even the no longer supported Windows XP receives the update.
For the vulnerabilities, exploits developed by the American secret agency NSA ,were available, according to ZDNet.
The WannaCry ransomware that spread rapidly in May this year, was based on such an exploit from the NSA. The latest security patch from Microsoft fixes 3 vulnerabilities which Microsoft first announced it would not patch.
Microsoft has changed its mind because the vulnerabilities could be used for destructive cyberattacks. With the updates Microsoft hopes to prevent another WannaCry attack.
Also Windows XP has received the update but Microsoft said that the decision to patch the flaws was a "rare move," adding that it "should not be viewed as a departure from our standard servicing policies."
Including this patch, Microsoft now released 3 updates for Windows XP to patch a critical vulnerability.
Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 computers are not automatically upgraded, they have to download the update from Microsoft's Download Center. Computers running a supported Windows version, such as Windows 7 and Windows 10 will receive the updates automatically through Windows Update.
