Apple blocks Java on Macs due to vulnerabilities
NEW YORK (AP) - Mac computers have stopped running programs written using the Java programming language in their browsers, as Apple blocked it because of security problems.
Apple has previously blocked, then unblocked, the latest version of Java on the most recent versions of its Mac operating system. On Thursday, Apple also started blocking an older version of the Mac system, called Snow Leopard, from running Java 6, also an older version.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends disabling Java in Web browsers because it has provided pathways for hackers to take control of computers that visit a website rigged with malicious software. Oracle Corp., which owns Java, has issued updates that fix known vulnerabilities, but the DHS expects that there are more.
Oracle had no immediate comment on Apple's action.
Apple has previously blocked, then unblocked, the latest version of Java on the most recent versions of its Mac operating system. On Thursday, Apple also started blocking an older version of the Mac system, called Snow Leopard, from running Java 6, also an older version.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends disabling Java in Web browsers because it has provided pathways for hackers to take control of computers that visit a website rigged with malicious software. Oracle Corp., which owns Java, has issued updates that fix known vulnerabilities, but the DHS expects that there are more.
Oracle had no immediate comment on Apple's action.
Macs haven't shipped with Java for quite some time now. Â I never even missed it.
It is strange but I was reading this article and received an up-date from Java. I refused it and have had Java turned off since first seeing the warning from HLS. Till they get their act together, debug it so it can not be used as an avenue to invade my computer it will remain turned off.Â
Just to think, I started building a Java project, after thinking I should do something other than php all of the time. Â It looks like Java will go into my "no need to learn" folder with C#.NET. Â
Java...can't live with it, can't live without it. Where is HTML5? Hello? We are waiting.
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BTW, anyone else having problems with the "Take Winter by Storm" ad on the KOMO website? It freezes my browser more often than not. Driving me crazy!Â
 @lakeview Yes at work. But at home with ad-blockers and script stoppers, never see it.
 @lakeview I'm running Safari on OSX10.8.2 with ClickToPlugIn.  It seems to disallow non-native ads to render, which might stop annoying browser freezes...Â