A security flaw in new Dell computers was discovered by some Dell customers who promptly reported it to Dell, which has responded by providing a patch.  The flaw involves a company installed security certificate called “eDellRoot,” which ironically made these computers vulnerable to hacking such that the hackers could read encrypted messages and redirect Internet traffic to phony websites that could be used to trick the computer users into providing personal information that could be used to make them victims of identity theft.

The motive behind the eDellRoot certificate was actually a good one.  According to Dell, “it was intended to provide the system service tag to Dell online support allowing us to quickly identify the computer model, making it easier and faster to service our customers.”  After a quick investigation, Dell has apologized and provided a security patch to correct the problem.

TIPS

Dell has removed the eDellRoot program from the computers it is now selling, however, if you recently purchased a Dell computer, it is highly likely that it has the flawed program.  However, here is a link from Dell to which you can go to remove the offending program.  http://www.dell.com/support/article/us/en/04/SLN300321?c=us&l=en&s=bsd&cs=04