Dell has announced a security vulnerability in troubleshooting software called SupportAssist that comes pre-installed on its home and business PCs. The vulnerability could allow an attacker who successfully exploits it to gain administrative privileges to the computer.
The following versions of SupportAssist are affected:
- Dell SupportAssist for Business PCs version 2.0
- Dell SupportAssist for Home PCs version 3.2.1 and all prior releases
Please note that Dell computers managed by Pitt Information Technology do not include SupportAssist and are not affected by this vulnerability.
Dell recommends that users immediately install the security updates necessary to remediate this vulnerability. If automatic updates are enabled, Dell SupportAssist should automatically upgrade to the latest version. Users can also download the update manually from the following links:
Dell SupportAssist for Business PCs
- https://downloads.dell.com/serviceability/Catalog/SupportAssistx64.msi
- https://downloads.dell.com/serviceability/Catalog/SupportAssistx86.msi
Dell SupportAssist for Home PCs
In addition, Pitt IT recommends that all students, faculty, and staff install Antivirus (Symantec Endpoint) and Anti-Malware (Malwarebytes) Protection. Both are available at no cost through the Software Download Service. Departments can submit a help request to obtain Malwarebytes for multiple machines.
Please contact the Technology Help Desk at 412-624-HELP (4357) if you have any questions regarding this announcement.