Vulnerabilities and yet???

I'm curious. When I go to SD701 wherein the user's browser is revealed (and I suspect the same would be true here), why is it that so many continue to use various versions of Netscape and earlier versions of Mozilla when it has been shown that they have a number of vulnerabilities? Is it that the actual rather than theoretical threat of these vulnerabilities is just not real enough to give them pause for any concern? I've been waiting for months now for Netscape 7.2 to have its vulnerabilities patched and still...nothing. I'm using FF simply by virtue of it being theoretically safer (but in truth I'd rather be using Netscape...and Westside... please don't suggest I use Mozilla... can't stand the red dragon).

Nothing will ever be 100% secure so it makes me wonder.... do these perceived vulnerabilities actually result in people being hacked in the real world?

Lots of questions here, folks.

 

James,

I think that many users are unaware of the vulnerabilities. Those who are aware may be following the advice to stay away from untrusted sites.

I hope you aren't holding your breath, waiting for Netscape to come out with a new Release. I seriously doubt that is any time in the near future. That is not necessarily a criticism, but I'm going by the length of time it took AOL to decide to revive Netscape.

I think the reality is that only a few users are hacked, and they are careless about their browsing habits, and the precautions they take...

MHO,

Ramona

 

Thank you, Ramona. I received a somewhat similar answer on another forum (I'm sure you saw it) and I appreciate this input. I've decided to stay with FF and TB rather than revert to NS 7.2 which would seem to be foolish, even though the risk is minimal (given my browsing habits).

 

James,

Yes, I saw the other answer after the fact, but I know that you don't mind more than one opinion, and I wish more members here would give you their opinions too...

I've used the Netscape Prototype, and I found it a huge disappointment. Nothing like the good old Netscape we've known for years. I think it is a mistake to try and make a clone of Firefox...

I have been switching between Mozilla 1.7.5 w/no Mail, and Firefox. I like them both, and each has its own awesome components. Mozilla requires no extensions to add your preferences. However, Firefox requires fewer extensions now than earlier in the game. I believe I lean toward Firefox, and will be using Thunderbird with both browsers...

Ramona

 

James, as Ramona pointed out, there are some users not aware of the vulnerabilities.
However, there are also users who are well aware of such vulnerabilities but still use slightly outdated version of Mozilla/Firefox/Netscape. I personally do not upgrade browsers every now and then, as I see no need of doing so.
I am aware of the vulnerabilities, but I know my way of browsing, and I know how to protect myself. Also, I've been having a feeling that one of those security reporting companies exaggerated the situation a bit, and provided no (useful) solution.
Be careful is the best way.