Although not a cloud computing issue, regardless of whether you are considering cloud computing advantages or not, all users must take this threat seriously

Whether or not you are considering cloud computing advantages, it is important for all users to take this threat seriously.  It is not a cloud computing issue, rather, it is a local computer security issue.  It was recently announced by Homeland Security that Java (even the most recently updated version) contains a severe vulnerability that can theoretically compromise both your local computers and your network (http://www.zdnet.com/homeland-security-warns-to-disable-java-amid-zero-day-flaw-7000009713/ ).    Ordinarily, we wouldn’t suggest anything more drastic than making sure all your computers are up to date, and that you make sure that Java, Flash, etc. is all up to the latest version.  However, this latest alert is more severe than most, and it would be advisable to consider disabling or removing Java from your computer and web browsers.  For most people, this will not have any effect on the use of your computer.  Most websites use Java Script, not Java, which, despite the similarity in names, have nothing to do with each other.  Only a very few specific sites and/or applications might require you to actually have Java installed on your machine.  When, and if, you need to use one of these sites, they will alert you that you need to install Java, and, by that time, hopefully the issue will be resolved.

Here is a nice tutorial on how to disable Java on your PC or Mac (preferred option):  http://www.zdnet.com/how-to-disable-java-in-your-browser-on-windows-mac-7000009732/

You can also remove Java in Windows from the “Remove Programs” option in the Windows Control Panel.

At ScalIT, we are always concerned about our customers’ privacy and
security.  Contact us today regarding cloud computing advantages, and how ScalIT can help your business be more efficient and secure.