On Tuesday, Microsoft released patches to fix 12 security vulnerabilities involving Microsoft Windows, Internet Explorer, Media Player, Word, and PowerPoint. On Wednesday, code appeared online to exploit these holes.

Although the code is circulating, there are currently no reports of it being used in an actual attack.

In a statement to CNet, Microsoft said: "Microsoft is aware that detailed exploit code was published on the internet for some of the vulnerabilities.

"With the exception of MS06-027 (the Word malware that began circulating last month), Microsoft is not currently aware of any active attacks utilising this exploit code...the exploit code does not affect users who have installed all June security updates."

Eight of the twelve updates released were critical and all Windows users are advised to install them as quickly as possible.

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