sundance-communications.com/forum Forums Computers & Programming Computers, Software, Accessories U.S. Government & Java.

Seems that Java has some sort of security weakness that can be exploited. The U.S. Government is asking for the general public to disable the program for the time being. I did shut it down in my home computer. Has anyone else done that as well?

There's a new improved version of Java, but you're supposed to delete all Java and install the new one. Kim Komando put this notice out on the 10th https://www.komando.com/tips/index....utm_content=2013-01-10-article-in-body-c

Carl

Something else to consider: Do you really need java? Chances are you don't.

When you surf the web, java on web pages is handled by your browser without needing any additional plug-ins or third party software of any kind. Many people download and install the "java run time environment" because they think they need it to surf the web. In reality, it is completely unnecessary. The exceptions are when it is needed by certain older software, and for some specialized web applications.

Now, whether or not you allow the client-side java script in web pages to be executed by your web browser is up to you. Personally, I wouldn't drive two feet on the infomercial superhighway without noscript running. Yes, it can slow down your surfing when you have to allow scripts on a case by case basis, but I compare it to letting people into my house [something else I like to have control over].

https://noscript.net/

[it runs on mozilla based platforms]

Jim
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Speaking from a secure undisclosed location.

The fix posted by Carl is not so much of a fix. Story here.

I'm not sure why this particular vulnerability is making the media hype reel. Java historically has been targeted by malware writers to drop their junk on unsuspecting computers. Every Java version patches some critical vulnerability. This has been going on for years.

Unless you play Minecraft, use OpenOffice or LibreOffice, or visit some website that requires Java (I'm looking at you ebay.com shipping label printing), chances are you don't need it. Use a two web browser approach: one with Java enabled that you use only for that site that requires Java, and a regular every-day web browser without Java enabled.