You absolutely must update your Dell PC right now

A public service announcement for anyone like me using a multi-year-old Dell PC as their primary machine: Dell released a security patch for a security vulnerability affecting nearly 400 different computer models manufactured between 2009 and now. It’s, uh, a lot of laptops.

The vulnerability was discovered by a security research company SentinelLabs in a driver used by Dell and Alienware Firmware Update utilities. The flaw allows an attacker to access full permissions at kernel level in Windows. Dell information page says it has no evidence that the vulnerability was exploited and that tThe attacker should have direct access to the computer to take advantage of the vulnerability. But this is possible through malware, phishing, or granting remote access privileges, for example, to someone masquerading as Dell customer service.

Make sure to check Dell List affected computers if you think you meet the criteria. Ssome of the latest XPS 13 and 15 models are affected, as are Dell G-series gaming laptops. There’s also a list of mid-range Inspiron models over the years and even workstation towers.

Dell offers a security update through its update clients. the Faq said to expect it by May 10. If you want to delete the the driver yourself, there are instructions on the link to locate it on 32 and 64 bit versions of Windows.