I used to use Secunia’s online check (OSI?) which, way back then, required Java. I was constantly having trouble getting their applets to load and run properly, so switched to the PSI version which has worked fine except for the occasional server hangup at their end.
There was only one other site (FreeSlots) for which I needed Java, and some months back they switched everything over from Java to javascript, which gave me a nifty excuse and opportunity to totally dump Java.
Does Secunia’s online version still insist on Java, or have they smartened up too and switched to another format? Just curious, since I can’t see dumping my PSI. Thanks.
Did not you notice that software updater came to the avast av solution?
Second rule uninstall all the software that you do not use on a daily basis,
less worries that way!
Some need java for applications they cannot go without,
Only allow it when it is absolutely needed in the browser on a on-demand basis, do not run it!
because in the browser it is that java could be abused.
Again the use of NoScript and Request Policy will certainly deminish the threat (redirects).
The Secunia OSI identifies a few of the most common programs (complete list here: http://secunia.com/products/consumer/osi/programs_covered/), while the Secunia PSI can detect almost any program. In addition, the Secunia OSI is run using Java in a browser, while the Secunia PSI is a program the user downloads and installs. Both the Secunia OSI and Secunia PSI are completely free to use for typical home users.
I use it on demand only, and don’t have Java.