Monthly Archives: February 2013

Java, Patches and updates, Security

Massive Java security update

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Oracle/Sun has released update 13 for Java 7 (Java 7u13).

The update was originally scheduled for release on February 19, but given all the recent security issues, Oracle decided to get the latest patch out there as soon as possible.

The update includes fifty bug and security fixes. The issues addressed are listed on the associated Critical Patch Update Advisory. Oddly, the update version (7u13) is never mentioned once on that lengthy page.

Recommendations:

  • If you use Java, update it ASAP.
  • Don’t depend on the Java auto-updater to update Java: do it manually.
  • Don’t assume Java is now safe. Until security researchers like Adam Gowdiak give Java 7u13 a thumbs-up, assume it’s still vulnerable.
  • Disable Java plugins in your web browser unless you have no choice.
  • Continue to be extremely careful when browsing the web.