Mostly because of iTunes, a ton of Windows users got Apple’s Quicktime software installed on their PCs. Back then, it was necessary, but now? Not so much. Their support page says that changed since version 10.5 (which was released since October 2011). What’s worse? It’s even become a security risk.
Last week, in a blogpost, Trend Micro urgently recommended that users uninstall the video player from their computers – a message that the US Department of Homeland Security echoed. Apparently, they found 2 security holes which, if executed will allow people with unsavoury intent run malicious code through Quicktime. Of course, this will only happen if the users open the fake websites or run the attacker’s executables, but I’d rather be safe than sorry.
“…the only way to protect your Windows systems from potential attacks against these or other vulnerabilities in Apple QuickTime now is to uninstall it.”
Since the news broke last week, it’s been a little more than speculation. Now? Wall Street Journal just reported that Apple has confirmed it’s throwing Quicktime 7 in the can. No more updates or support.
If the fact that Quicktime is outdated isn’t enough reason to uninstall it, then the security risks are, if you ask me. So go on…what are you waiting for? Apple’s included a step-by-step guide on their Support page.
