Microsoft admits security flaw

Microsoft has admitted that its new operating system Windows XP has a serious security flaw, which could allow hackers to take over vulnerable computers.


The software giant has released a downloadable patch on its website and is "strongly urging" all the seven million customers who have bought the OS to download and install it immediately.


The flaw was discovered five weeks ago by computer security company eEye Digital Services. Left unfixed, the fault allows hackers to take control of a PC without the user doing anything or knowing that his files have been hijacked.


The fault is in a feature called Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). Microsoft is urging all Windows XP customers and those using previous versions of Windows, including Windows 98, 98 SE or ME, who have fitted the Universal Plug and Play service, to download a patch.


For information and to download the patch, click here to visit the Microsoft website.