Flaws in Microsoft’s email software concerns White House, US govt

Newly discovered flaws in Microsoft Corp.’s software for email have raised concerns at the highest levels of the US government, which is urging users to immediately apply patches.

At least 30,000 organizations across the US, including significant numbers of small businesses and local governments, have been hacked via holes in Microsoft’s email software in the last few days by suspected Chinese attackers who are focused on stealing email from victims, the blog KrebsonSecurity reported Friday.

“This is a significant vulnerability that could have far-reaching impacts,” said Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, speaking at a briefing. “We are concerned there are a large number of victims.” She characterized the incident as an “active threat.”