Microsoft has announced a serious security issue affecting up to 400 million Windows PCs. Users need to act quickly as the deadline for support is approaching.
Major Risks for Windows Users
Currently, Windows 10 runs on 41% of PCs, down from 46%. In ten days, security updates will cease for users not enrolled in Microsoft’s Extended Security Update (ESU). Users can either pay $30 or fulfill specific criteria to extend their support for free.
Out of nearly 600 million Windows 10 PCs, up to 400 million may not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements. This predicament stems from the popularity of Windows 10 and Microsoft’s hardware policies.
Implications of Ending Support
The impact of this situation is significant, as many users will have unprotected PCs. Advocacy group PIRG emphasized the dangers of having outdated software, highlighting that unpatched vulnerabilities can become prime targets for malware and ransomware.
Once support ends on October 14, cybercriminals could exploit these unpatched devices. The cybersecurity community echoes these concerns, warning that millions of systems will be at risk of attacks.
Actions for Affected Users
Users running Windows 10 must take immediate action before the deadline. They can enroll in the free ESU, which requires a Microsoft and OneDrive account, or upgrade to Windows 11, although adoption of the new OS has been slow.
With many older PCs unable to run Windows 11, alternatives like Linux or Chromebook OS may be viable options for those unable to upgrade.
