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Windows vulnerability in .HLP files revealed

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On April 11, 2007, 5:53 PM EST

The same day that various Office flaws were brought into the public light, yet another Windows vulnerability has been reported. This one could spell trouble, as it has the potential to cause code execution and ultimately system compromise. The problem, which McAfee reported, is in Windows help files. Currently, Microsoft's advice is to “use caution” :

Microsoft said it is aware of the issue and advises caution with ".hlp" files, which are as unsafe as ".exe," as both file types are executable, it said.
The scope of this flaw is probably limited, as .HLP files aren't exactly in abundance and aren't something most people expect to encounter. By that same token, they are also considered to be benign and something simple enough to be trusted.

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User Comments (2)

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howzz1854
on April 11, 2007
5:45 PM
i just don't see any immediate danger here. how many people here actually use the "help" system in windows. in case one hasn't noticed, all they do is tell you the things you already know anyway.

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lordbf1
on April 12, 2007
10:01 AM
Roger That!

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