Security experts are encouraging Internet Explorer users to
switch browsers as a result of an
unpatched security hole that could be used to steal their
data.
The bug was discovered in the browser last week and
Microsoft says all versions of its browser are open to exploits
of the vulnerability.
It is believed Microsoft will issue a patch for the security
hole before its next scheduled patching date of 13 January, but
that has not stopped security experts recommending a browser
switch.
Rick Ferguson, senior security advisor at Trend Micro,
told
the BBC, "What we have seen from the exploit so far is the
stealing of game passwords, but it is inevitable that it will be
adapted by criminals. It is just a question of modifying the
payload the Trojan installs.
"If users can find an alternative browser, that is good
mitigation against the threat."
Other browsers like Firefox, Opera, Google Chrome and Apple's
Safari are not vulnerable to the flaw.
Richard Cox, chief information officer at anti-spam body The
Spamhaus Project, echoed Trend Micro's advice.
He said, "It won't be long before someone reverse engineers this
exploit for more fraudulent purposes. Trend Micro's advice is very
sensible."