quicktimeThe Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team today issued an alert recommending Windows users with QuickTime installed uninstall the software as new vulnerabilities have been discovered that Apple does not plan to patch.

Computers running QuickTime for Windows will continue to work after support ends. However, using unsupported software may increase the risks from viruses and other security threats. Potential negative consequences include loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability of data, as well as damage to system resources or business assets. The only mitigation available is to uninstall QuickTime for Windows.

The recommendation comes following a report from Trend Micro outlining Apple's plans to deprecate the software, which means no more security updates will be issued. At the same time, two new critical vulnerabilities have been discovered that affect QuickTime for Windows, and with no security updates forthcoming, the only defense against a potential attack is to remove the software.

For Windows users who want to uninstall QuickTime, Apple has published a support document that outlines all of the necessary steps. QuickTime for Mac is not affected.

Update 4/18: Apple has confirmed to The Wall Street Journal that QuickTime will no longer be updated.

Top Rated Comments

Studioman Avatar
115 months ago
So, let me get this straight. The department that keeps us safe from terrorist is issuing a warning to users because Apple won't fix old software, but the FBI knows a flaw in old IPhone software and keeps it secret to protect us from... Wait for it.... Terrorist. Lol
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)
tevion5 Avatar
115 months ago
Oh no not QuickTime!

Guess I'll just have to take my mind off it by firing up Windows 98, kicking back to Smashmouth and playing some Age of Empires II.
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
corbindavenport Avatar
115 months ago
Honestly not much of a loss, VLC Media Player can play all QuickTime content to my knowledge.
Score: 11 Votes (Like | Disagree)
_Refurbished_ Avatar
115 months ago
Where has Apple's icon design gone.

It's sad when an app that's been discontinued has a significantly better icon than Apple's current apps.

(QuickTime for Mac is just as irrelevant)
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
pat500000 Avatar
115 months ago
"quit-time" for window users.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
0007776 Avatar
115 months ago
I would think the government would like people to keep compromised software installed as it makes their job easier. I guess it must be a misscommunication between agencies.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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