Java Web Browser Plugin Being Killed Off by Oracle to Curb Endless Security Flaws

Sometimes in life, it's okay to get rid of what some think is a good thing, especially when the "good thing" ended up causing serious issues for a large percentage of people who used the "good thing." As the hands of time turn, so does the famous Java browser plugin, which is being killed off by Oracle as a result of its struggle against endless security flaws and malware attacks.

Java has long been a popularized web browser plugin that implemented app-like functions and features for web browser applications. When Java got its start back in the 1990s, it was appealing to many as it brought new innovative features for web browsers enabling developers to do more with the way you surf the internet and interact with websites and online services. While Java proved to be beneficial in many aspects, it suffered many issues at the hands of hackers and cybercrooks who have maliciously exploited the plugin to no end.

Today's web browser applications are more sophisticated than ever. Moreover, many new web browser apps, at least, the popular ones, come equipped with remarkable features sets and security protection where they do not need Java. In fact, most new browsers do not enable Java and have completely removed support for Java as a means of keeping the browser application secure.

Java plugins are on the decline, and overall use of Java is at an all-time low. The decision made by Oracle to kill off Java is rather wise in the full scheme of hardly any new browsers using the aged and unsecured technology.

We have seen countless instances of Java being the culprit for spreading and injecting nasty malware threats. In some cases, we have witnessed Java being exploited to the point that exploit kits are sold off on the dark web to hackers who spread modernized ransomware threats that encrypt files. There is no doubt that Java has been one of the most attacked and exploited platforms resulting in mass-spreading of malware threats of all types.

As of now, Oracle is planning to depreciate the Java browser plugin in September 2016 for its JDK 9 release. Other platforms, such as Silverlight and Flash are said to have their days numbered as well considering how modern browsers have a plugin-free environment. Those looking for detailed updates and information on Java may seek Oracle's latest whitepaper revealing Java's slow demise.

Looking at our extensive database of malware threats, there are literally hundreds of infections that are associated with exploiting Java in some way. If it were up to us, Java would have been killed off many years ago. Currently, it's difficult to predict exactly when Java browser plugins will fully disappear. Nevertheless, new web browsers like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and even the latest Firefox version, have already ditched Java. As far as businesses who utilize Java browser plugins, Oracle will continue to provide support in the short term but have warned many that the grand finale of Java is looming, and they must make moves to turn away from the aged plugin platform.