Security warning: Microsoft PCs should be updated immediately

CNN — If you have a Microsoft computer that runs on Windows, you should install the latest update as soon as possible as researchers found a serious vulnerability in the operating system.

The security flaw, known as PrintNightmare, impacts the Windows Print Spooler service.

The researchers announced in late May that they found vulnerabilities in Print Spooler, which allows multiple users to access a printer. They published a proof-of-concept online by mistake and subsequently deleted it — but not before it was published elsewhere online, including developer site GitHub.

Microsoft warned that hackers could exploit the vulnerability and be able to install programs, view and delete data or even create new user accounts with full user rights. That gives hackers enough control to do some serious damage.

Windows 10 is not the only version affected — Windows 7, which Microsoft has ended support for last year, is also vulnerable.

Microsoft issued a patch for the 12-year-old operating system, underscoring the PrintNightmare flaw. Updates for Windows Server 16, Windows 10, version 1607, and Windows Server 2012 are “expected soon,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.

“We recommend that you install these updates immediately,” the company said.

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