If Windows Defender flags ‘WinRing0’ on your gaming PC, pay attention

Here is a 196-word summary of the news article: Microsoft Defender has been flagging a vulnerability in the "WinRing0" driver used by many popular PC applications for controlling fan speeds, RGB lighting, and other system functions. The vulnerability, identified by the NIST, allows malware to potentially exploit the driver and attack the user's PC. The WinRing0 driver was originally created in 2010 but has not been properly maintained, leaving the vulnerability unpatched. Many gaming and enthusiast software tools rely on this driver, including EVGA Precision X1, MSI Afterburner, and Razer Synapse. Microsoft is warning users about the valid vulnerability, but also offering the option to create an exception and whitelist affected applications. This is risky, as it leaves the PC open to potential malware attacks exploiting the flaw. Software vendors are urged to find alternative, more secure methods for controlling hardware functions, either through Windows APIs or sandboxed environments. Until then, users are advised to play it safe and allow Microsoft Defender to block the vulnerable driver, even if it means losing some functionality in their favorite PC tools.