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Explained in plain English

What is a 'vulnerability'?

A 'vulnerability' is a weakness in a computer system or software, like the flaws found in PHP. These weaknesses can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorised access, disrupt services, or steal data. In this story, the two PHP vulnerabilities allowed hackers to potentially compromise websites worldwide, leading to shutdowns.

Stories that explain this

Websites worldwide go offline after two serious flaws found in PHP

Questions this opens up

Who are 'malicious actors'? What is 'unauthorised access'? How do they find these flaws?

Related explainers

What is a zero-day vulnerability? How does AI find flaws? What is a cyber-security firm? What is the Dutch agency? What did the Dutch do? Is the Dutch NCSC like Britain's? Who owns Wikipedia? What is PHP?

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