Microsoft to release an update for Internet Explorer browser to fix security issue

NEW DELHI: Software giant Microsoft will release an update today for its Internet Explorer browser to fix a security problem that could potentially expose personal computers to hacking attacks.

"Earlier this week, an issue impacting Internet Explorer affected a small number of customers. The potential exists, however, that more customers could be affected... On September 21, we will release a cumulative update for Internet Explorer through Windows Update and our other standard distribution channels," Trustworthy Computing Director Yunsun Wee said on the Microsoft Security Response Centre website.

The solution will be automatically installed on PCs running on Microsoft's Windows operating system if the machine is set up to receive important updates, Wee added.

Microsoft had began offering a temporary patch for the problem on September 19.

"We have released a Fix it (on September 19) that is available to address that issue. This is an easy, one-click solution that will help protect your computer right away. It will not affect your ability to browse the web, and it does not require a reboot of your computer," Wee said.

The US-based company has urged PC users, who haven't enabled their machines for automatic updates to retrieve and install the permanent patch as soon as it is made available.

Microsoft's Internet Explorer is one of the most common browsers used globally but it is facing tough competition from Google's Chrome, Apple's Safari and Mozilla's Firefox.