Windows Meta patch released early

A patch for a worrisome vulnerability in Windows Meta File code has been released ahead of schedule and is available for download.

Microsoft Thursday went ahead and released the security update to the Internet public rather than wait for next week's regular update as originally planned.

"Testing has been completed earlier than anticipated and the update is ready for release," the Seattle-area software giant announced. "In addition, Microsoft is releasing the update early in response to strong customer sentiment that the release should be made available as soon as possible."

Dubbed MS06-001, the fix should block off a possible window in the WMF code that could be exploited by virus spreaders.

Microsoft said its monitoring had led them to conclude that the risk and actual level of cyber mischief aimed at the flaw was limited in scope.

The patch can be downloaded from the company's website at www.microsoft.com/technet/secu … lletin/ms06-001.mspx .

Copyright 2006 by United Press International