I steer clear of Java like a jar of Vegemite that's reached its expiry date.
I understand that to some Java is necessary.
The good news is there are ways to avoid exploits and problems that are very to Java.
The main and best thing to do is
always keep your Java software up to date.
1 - "There are multiple free programs out there that automatically check for newer versions to install,"
2 - "If you're a user of any Firefox based browser you can also try
NoScript."
3 - "Not sure about Chrome but with Firefox based browsers you can set the Java plugin to "Ask To Activate" so that if anything ever requires to use Java you need to allow it".
(Using Flash as example as I only use Java in a Virtual Machine if needed and never on my main OS)
4 - "Regarding the topic, This news how ever is a perfect example why of how not even very big company's such as Yahoo are untouchable and how a simple thing like an Ad Blocker can protect you from these kind of things."