Popular apps have more security flaws than Windows

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the security vulnerabilities of popular applications compared to the Windows operating system, referencing a 2006 article that highlights the increasing number of flaws in everyday software. The scope includes technical concerns regarding application security, historical context, and the evolution of software definitions over time.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • Andrew Sullivan notes that applications have become more attractive targets for hackers than the Windows OS, which has improved its security over time through patches.
  • Some participants mention that desktop widgets in Windows 7 were vulnerable and later disapproved by Microsoft, suggesting a lack of security in certain applications.
  • There is a claim that random applications lack the security checks that Microsoft implements, leading to potential vulnerabilities.
  • One participant points out that the term "app" had a different meaning in 2006, as the concept of the App Store and mobile applications was not yet established.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the security of applications versus operating systems, with some agreeing on the vulnerabilities of applications while others highlight historical context and changes in software definitions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these vulnerabilities.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted limitation in the discussion regarding the historical context of the term "app" and its implications for understanding security vulnerabilities at the time of the original post.

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Andrew Sullivan
From the March 2006 issue of PC World magazine
Posted Monday, January 30, 2006

With a spiking number of security flaws, the programs you run every day are now a more enticing hacker target than your operating system.

The Windows OS has become battle-hardened over years of trial by fire, enduring relentless hacker attacks. Although sometimes-critical flaws continue to surface, security patches applied via automatic updates have made Windows a tougher nut to crack.

And Mac users, wipe that smug look off your faces: Because these security flaws are found in applications rather than operating systems, you are at risk as well.

Desktop programs such as iTunes, RealPlayer, and even the security-conscious Firefox now account for more than 60 percent of serious vulnerabilities, according to the British security firm Qualys.
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http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,124510,tk,wbxnws,00.asp
 
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Not surprising, given that the desktop widgets in Win 7 were all vulnerable and later disapproved by Microsoft.
 
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Random apps also don't have the security checks that Microsoft would have in place.
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
Random apps also don't have the security checks that Microsoft would have in place.
Of course they don't, as they're more eager to publish their apps rather than debug them. It's like installing apps from sources other than Playstore.
 
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Note that OP was from early 2006. “App” had a somewhat different meaning, as the iPhone and the idea of the App Store as a walled garden wouldn’t come out for another year (and Windows 7 not for another 3 years).
 
TeethWhitener said:
Note that OP was from early 2006. “App” had a somewhat different meaning, as the iPhone and the idea of the App Store as a walled garden wouldn’t come out for another year (and Windows 7 not for another 3 years).
That's not going to happen now .