What's problem with Internet Explorer (known as "IE" from here out) and how does it put you at risk?

The main problem with IE is numerous security flaws. As an example, between April 2001 and June 2004, Microsoft documented *153 security flaws* in IE. When a security flaw is discovered Microsoft releases information about flaw and potential impact. *Usually* at this point Microsoft provides a downloadable security fix to remedy problem. Since many people don't know about flaw and fix, frequently people remain vulnerable for long periods of time.

Just how serious are some of these security flaws? Some of critical security flaws allow attackers to basically gain control of your computer and run whatever malicious programs they chose. In many cases, a vulnerable computer can be compromised just by visiting wrong website.

Here are but a few of malicious programs I've seen loaded on computers through security holes in IE:

* Browser Hijackers. These are programs that do nasty things like change your home page to another page, usually something pornographic in nature. They can also install software and links on your desktop, of course *without* your permission.

* Spyware. This is extremely devious and malicious software, and in many cases, it's used by criminals for online identity theft. Once it's on your computer, Spyware sits quietly in background recording information about you. Do you shop and bank online? This is one threat to be extremely concerned about.