Microsoft starts 'Get Secure' security programme

October 5, 2001

Microsoft Corp. announced on Wednesday several major changes to its security practices designed to help mitigate unpatched systems recently compromised by the Code Red and Nimda worms.

The company has said it will provide free customer support, a new online security tool kit and extensive customer service through a programme called Get Secure, in its attempt to combat computer viruses.

The tool kit contains patches and service packs that address the security flaws in Windows NT and 2000 and ensure that new patches are automatically installed by way of the Windows Update feature. Also included is an Internet Information Server (IIS) Lockdown tool and documentation.

Microsoft also said that second phase of the programme, Stay Secure, will be launched within the next 60 days.

"As an industry leader, Microsoft recognizes it has a special obligation to help ensure the security of the Internet and our customers' data," Brian Valentine, senior vice president of the Windows Division at Microsoft, said Wednesday in a statement.

The company said it would continue addressing security issues during the development of its software.

However some experts recommend companies hit by Code Red and Nimda to examine alternatives to IIS. The point is that malicious worms would continue to attack IIS until Microsoft released a completely rewritten, thoroughly and publicly tested new release of the software.