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Microsoft warns of PowerPoint flaw

Microsoft has revealed internet security vulnerability in its PowerPoint programme, which the computer giant says could be used by hackers to remotely control a PC.

In a security advisory the company said it is investigating the issue, stating that the company was "aware only of limited and targeted attacks that attempt to use this vulnerability".

"An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could gain the same user rights as the local user," said the advisory.

"The vulnerability cannot be exploited automatically through e-mail. For an attack to be successful a user must open an attachment that is sent in an e-mail message."

Depending on later developments and "customer needs", the company said it would "take the appropriate action" to shield its customers from being exposed to online threats.

This will be carried out either through the firm's monthly patches, which come on every second Tuesday of the month, or an out-of-cycle security update.

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