Apple pulled the plug on supporting QuickTime for Windows after 11 years, and strongly urges Windows users to uninstall the software from their machines.
The OS X developer made clear that zero updates or security patches will land on the PC variant of the multimedia software from now on. This means that virtually all those who continue to use QuickTime on a system running Windows set themselves at risk.
No sooner than last week, digital security analysts at Trend Micro announced that they discovered two new flaws in QuickTime 7 for Windows. Trend Micro went on to add that Apple caught word of the security threats in November 2015.
Last year, the company stated that it didn't plan to issue any patches for the software, as QuickTime "would be deprecated on Windows." Apple also noted that Microsoft should instruct and assist users to remove the unpatched software.
Trend Micro replicated the vulnerabilities in QuickTime, directing it to an infected website and making it play a malicious file. Such nefarious actions help hackers by opening backdoors that allow remote code execution. The method is called "heap overflow" and it is a rather common modus operandi for ill-intended users, who can send malware to vulnerable targets.
Trend Micro says that the flaw was not spotted doing damage across the Internet, but suggests that the single surefire way of avoiding it is to install QuickTime altogether.
Apple delivered the most recent security update for the PC version of QuickTime in January. The company then offered users a thorough QuickTime uninstall guide on its Support Pages website, in March.
The state authorities are backing Apple's advice.
Earlier this month, The Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team addressed the issue and recommended that Windows PC users should uninstall Apple QuickTime video player immediately. The risks from continuing to use the player are considerable.
"Potential negative consequences include loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability of data, as well as damage to system resources or business assets," says US-CERT.
It should be noted that Mac computer users will keep getting regular patch updates, so they can still use QuickTime and be safe. If you're on Windows, however, uninstall it now if you haven't already.
