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Exploit code 'mistakenly' released

Millions of computer users have been left at risk of being exposed to online threats after Chinese security researchers reportedly released by mistake a code needed by a hacker to compromise end users.

The code exploits an un-patched vulnerability in Microsoft's Internet Explorer 7 browser to compromise users' internet security by simply infecting them when they visit a website.

According to internet security firm iDefense, the Chinese security team called Knownsec admitted to mistakenly releasing the exploit code early this week as they thought a patch for the vulnerability had been issued.

This vulnerability has grim consequences for computer users as cyber crooks could turn their attention to building websites designed to compromise the online security of end users.

Reports say Microsoft has acknowledged the issue but it is not known when a patch may be issued as the last patches of the year were released on Tuesday (December 9th) and the next ones are due for January 13th.

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