Is using Flashplayer risky for Linux Lite - should I use HTML5 instead?

[m654321]

Apparently, download sites for Adobe Flashplayer are a target by 'malware merchants', and the 'buggy Flashplayer' that results is not detected by conventional antivirus software or other anti-malware. 

Therefore, should I avoid Flashplayer in Linux and use HTML5 instead or are Linux users relatively immune to the 'buggy Flashplayer'? 

If I should set HTML5 as the default player, could you give me a few pointers on how I should go about this for Linux Lite?

Many thanks for your continued support.
Regards
Mike 

[torreydale]

I use flashplayer.  Many sites still require it, www.speedtest.net for example.  Linux uses an older version of Adobe Flash, but it still gets regular security updates.

Do not use download sites for Adobe Flashplayer.  I think it's already installed by default.  If not, install it using Install/Remove Software (Menu > System > Install/Remove Software).  Search for flashplugin-installer, Mark it for installation, and click on Apply.

[Ottawagrant]

I think it's a good question, and I'd certainly like to know. Should flash & java be 'on' by default in Linux Lite, or any Linux distro? Version 11.2 is the last version available for Linux. Maybe it's time to relegate them to 'Lite Software' in the Lite control center. Then they can be added/removed as needed (or not).

[tomt]

It is my understanding that Google Chrome will be switching everything to HTML 5 shortly giving the user a choice if Adobe is absolutely necessary. Firefox is already using HTML5 on all You Tube videos and you can set Firefox to prevent Flash and open it at your request with a pop-up at the top of the page that asks "allow-continue blocking-, or allow once". Very safe. I would recommend for peace of mind you might want to consider sophos. I installed it and it works great in Linux and it is free with many free tools available.

[paul1149]

@tomt, how are you using sophos home on linux? On WINE?

[Mike]

@m654321: For now one could argue that Linux is relatively more secure than Windows when running Flash. However, it's probably best to avoid using it when possible as it's only a matter of time until vulnerabilities are discovered on *nix machines.

@torreydale: I recommend checking out speedof.me - it uses HTML5.

[tomt]

@tomt, how are you using sophos home on linux? On WINE?

Paul,
I do not use wine in fact I bought a new desk top (HP) and took windows off as soon as I got it home. I use sophos through the terminal. It scans most files and I have not found any false findings so far, however sophos is actually for windows also. On their web site they do have a pdf manual you can download with a support forum. Sophos is really geared more towards business applications but is also effective for personal home use.

[paul1149]

Thanks, Tom. I will look into this. On the web site it says windows and mac only, but I'll check the forums.

BW.

[tomt]

Your welcome Paul. The free one states Linux also but you will see that on their web site. The forums don`t appear to be too helpful but on the plus side it runs in the background and unlike clamav prevents maleware before it can damage. Unfortunately I could not a graphical front end for it. 

[paul1149]

A ha. I was looking under the Home edition. Now I see it under Tools. Very nice. Will give this a spin. Thanks very much!