One of my computer consulting clients just called to ask if it was safe to install an Adobe Flash Player update from an automatic notice he received. The answer is “yes”, if it looks to be from Adobe and not a fake.
Computer paranoia
Don’t mean to scare you, and I haven’t heard about any such fakes – but a bit of paranoia is a good attitude when it comes to computer security. So it was smart of him to double-check by calling me.
Adobe Flash Player is installed on 99% of Windows computers, according to Adobe, and I don’t doubt it. It’s always been quite safe, and this recent security update from Adobe should make it even safer.
Beware web page scan or repair offers
In general, it’s always a good idea to install any genuine and familiar update arrives automatically as part of a program you already have and which mentions improving security.
It’s not safe to click on Internet web page offers to scan your computer or fix problems, unless you know the program and the vendor well. There are many sites which will invite you to infect your computer with a virus or spyware, disguised as some diagnostic or repair software. Some even infect your computer, then charge you to remove their infection!
Until next time – play it safe…
_jim coe
Tags: Adobe Flash player
