you do definitely want to keep java updated and you want to make sure all the old versions are gone from your pc because the really old ones can be a problem just having them there, you can make sure that is taken care of by running this little program called Javara. To update your java just go to your control panel and double click on the little java coffee cup then click on the update tab and let it check for updates and install any it finds but watch closely as it does this so that nothing extra like toolbars etc are installed that are not wanted. JavaRa check for old versions/remove old versions, check for updates. IT is free. to make sure the rest of the stuff that needs updating is current use this tool Secunia Online Software Inspector (OSI) you need to keep these things updated to stay secure from the latest infections.

Apparently that is what it is.. Oracle has updated its widely used Java software framework to fix critical vulnerabilities that criminals were actively exploiting to take full control of end-user computers.

You must have an extension of firefox forbiding java. I use the noscript extension and had to click the options button and temporarily allow sun.com, but was able to explore the whole site, including rotating the molecule with firefox.

Here's what I tell my users on the other forums, Special note on Java.Old Java versions should be removed after first clearing the Java Cache by following the instructions in: http://www.java.com/...lugin_cache.xml Then remove the old versions by going to Control Panel, Programs and Features and Uninstall all Java programs which are not Java Version 7 update 25 or better. These may call themselves: Java Runtime, Runtime Environment, Runtime, JRE, Java Virtual Machine, Virtual Machine, Java VM, JVM, VM, J2RE, J2SE. Get the latest version from Java.com. They will usually attempt to foist some garbage like the Ask toolbar, Yahoo toolbar or McAfee Security Scan on you as part of the download. Just uncheck the garbage before the download (or install) starts. If you use a 64-bit browser and want the 64-bit version of Java you need to use it to visit java.com. Due to multiple security problems with Java we are now recommending that it not be installed unless you absolutely know you need it. If that is the case then you should go in to Control panels, Java, Security and set the slider to the highest level. Also make sure you have the latest versions of any adobe.com products you use like Shockwave, Flash or Acrobat. Whether you use adobe reader, acrobat or fox-it to read pdf files you need to disable Javascript in the program. There is an exploit out there now that can use it to get on your PC. For Adobe Reader: Start, All Programs, Adobe Reader, Edit, Preferences, Click on Javascript in the left column and uncheck Enable Acrobat Javascript. OK Close program. It's the same for Foxit reader except you uncheck Enable Javascript Actions.