Starting next month, updated Windows operating systems will reject encryption keys smaller than 1024 bits. The change is part of Microsoft’s response to security weaknesses that came to light after Windows Update became an unwitting party to Flame Malware attacks. Microsoft is updating its operating systems in the wake of the Flame malware used to spy on networks in Iran. The biggest challenge for businesses getting ready for the change will likely be with legacy, in-house applications that interact with Windows platforms, an analyst says. NIST set a deadline of Dec. 31, 2013 for when entities ought to stop using 1024-bit RSA and DSA encryption.”]