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Microsoft warns of exploit code

Computer giant Microsoft has issued a warning to internet users to be wary of a newly discovered vulnerability that can expose them to online threats by just visiting an infected website.

This follows reports that a Chinese research team mistakenly published an exploit code that could allow hackers to infect end users in this way, thinking a security patch had been issued.

In a security advisory, Microsoft has said its researchers are "actively investigating" the flaw and that hackers have not widely exploited the vulnerability.

"On completion of this investigation, Microsoft will take the appropriate action to protect our customers," said the advisory.

"At this time, we are aware only of limited attacks that attempt to use this vulnerability."

The code released by the researchers exploits an un-patched vulnerability in Microsoft's Internet Explorer 7 browser and uses a drive by download method to cause internet security issues.

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