Symantec has repaired a serious problem with versions of its leading anti-virus software, which protects some of the world"s largest corporations and U.S. government agencies. The flaw lets hackers steal sensitive data, delete files or implant malicious programs.
Symantec, of Cupertino, Calif., began providing a repairing patch for its software over the Memorial Day weekend, just days after researchers disclosed the problem. The speedy response — many software manufacturers take months to do similar repairs — underscored the seriousness of the threat, which affected the latest corporate versions of Symantec Anti-virus.
The company said the patch is available using its LiveUpdate technology, which distributes the latest anti-virus protections. The company said it has not detected efforts by hackers to exploit the anti-virus flaw.