AOL has hole in IM software

Everyone today seems to use AIM instant messenger. How would you like the possibility of your computer being hacked into by going through your messaging system? Recently there was a study done that showed a security hole in the widely used new AIM programs. The holes were seen in versions 6.1 and 6.2 which is still in the beta test mode. Core Security Technologies were the ones that stumbled upon the flaw and notified Time Warner Inc. in late August of this year. AOL has said the problem was fixed but now they are saying that solution was temporary because of the more holes they have discovered. Core Security says the hole emerged because of the way the new versions allow for more various fonts and they can sent picture expressions in their chats. Hackers can release a certain command in an IM session and then the intruder would have access to their computer. As of right now AOL spokespeople say that AIM users should consider themselves “completely safe”, but in today’s computer would nothing is ever “completely safe” rather just less insecure. They are currently taking action against the hacks by putting more testing into play on how these hacks are being executed. The best advice right now if you are an AIM junkie would be to switch to the older version of 5.9 or use the web based aim until the bugs are fully resolved. Also just be aware if anything looks suspicious not to click on it.