A new security vulnerability has been detected in Java 7 that can put your computer at risk of malicious code. While most Mac users are protected due to Macs not having Java applications, those who have manually installed or updated Java on their systems need to take measures to protect themselves. This guide provides steps on how to identify if your system is vulnerable and how to disable Java or Java in your browser to stay protected.
Summary:
- Java SE 7 (1.7) is vulnerable
- Java SE 6 (1.6) or older is secure
How to Identify Java Version Installed:
There are two ways to find out if you have Java installed on your Mac and which version.
Using Java Settings:
- Open Applications and then Utilities, double-click Java Settings.
- Under Name and Version, check if it’s Java SE 6 or Java SE 7.
Using the Terminal:
- Open Terminal from Applications and then Utilities.
- Type
java version
command and press enter. - If you have Java SE 7 or 1.7, you need to disable Java.
Disable Java System-wide on Mac OS X
Use these steps to disable Java service altogether:
- Open Java settings from Applications/Utilities.
- Deselect “Enable the applet plug-in and Web Start applications.”
- Deselect “SE” next to Java SE
Disable Java per Web Browser in OS X
If you need Java for certain applications, you can disable it in specific web browsers.
Disable Java in Safari:
- Click Safari and select Settings, then click on the Security tab.
- Clear the Enable Java checkbox.
Disable Java in Chrome:
- Type “chrome://plugins” in the URL bar, find Java, and click Disable.
Disable Java in Firefox:
- Open Firefox Preferences and on the General tab, click Manage Add-ons.
- Select “Plugins” and find Java, click the Disable button.
Benefits of the Guide
- The guide is free.
- It provides simple steps to stay protected from the Java 7 security vulnerability.
- Makes it easy for users to identify if they need to disable Java.
FAQ
What is the guide about?
The guide provides steps to disable the Java 7 security vulnerability and keep your computer safe.
What devices are supported for this guide?
The guide is meant for Apple devices only.
What operating systems are supported?
The guide is applicable to Mac OS and iOS.
Is the guide beneficial?
Yes, the guide is very beneficial as it provides effective and easy-to-follow steps to disable Java and protect your computer.
Final Note
If you have any questions or want to correct any misinformation, kindly use our contact page. This guide is for educational purposes only, and if anyone wants to suggest additional methods for protection, please reach out to us.