The latest security patch from Microsoft addresses a serious security flaw.

Microsoft have released a serious security patch for Windows XP, 2000 and NT. It is essential that you install these patches. We suggest visiting the Windows Update website and downloading any critical updates.

It is likely the Windows Update site will be overwhelmed. If you can't get through, you can manually download the update from Microsoft's advisory page. The advisory page has more information on the problem as well as the patch files.

There is no information about Windows 95, 98 and ME being affected. Currently, it appears they do not have this flaw.

It is important to take this warning seriously. While there are no reported viruses or hacks taking advantage of this weakness, we almost certainly will see them appearing in the next few weeks. Keep ahead of the bad guys with keeping your system up to date.