We’ve been warned about it for months and now the date is finally here when millions must upgrade to the latest version of Windows 10. From tomorrow, Tuesday January 14, anyone using the older Windows 7 operating will face a much bigger threat from cyber criminals, malware and annoying bugs.
That’s because Microsoft is no longer supporting this ageing software and will not be pushing out any more security updates or bug fixes to its millions of users.
If you are still one of those with Windows 7 installed on your PC then the advice is pretty clear – upgrade now or face the risks.
In a post on its support pages, Microsoft warned: “If you continue to use Windows 7 after support has ended, your PC will still work, but it will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses.
“Your PC will continue to start and run, but you will no longer receive software updates, including security updates, from Microsoft.”
If you are still using Windows 7 then there are a couple of options.
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Firstly you can install Windows 10 on to your current PC which will then make sure it gets all the latest updates from Microsoft.
However, Microsoft is warning that some may find their devices struggle to cope once this new OS is downloaded.
On its advice page, Microsoft said: “To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, we recommend moving to a new PC with Windows 10.
“For most Windows 7 users, moving to a new device with Windows 10 will be the recommended path forward. Today’s PCs are faster, lightweight yet powerful, and more secure, with an average price that’s considerably less than that of the average PC eight years ago.”
Although many may have already taken Microsoft’s advice, the most recent stats suggest around 26 percent of all desktop and laptop PCs are still using Windows 7 which means millions are putting themselves at serious risk of attack.
And it’s not just Microsoft that is warning users of the consequences as cyber security experts are also alerting users to the risk.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, McAfee’s Chief Scientist and Fellow Raj Samani said: “With Microsoft’s support for Windows 7 coming to an end, users need to be aware their potential exposure by continuing to use the outdated operating system.
“By using an unsupported operating system, users expose themselves to cybersecurity risks as Microsoft will no longer resolve security flaws found on the system, provide technical support or issue software updates. Cybercriminals can use this to their advantage by identifying any flaws in the system and potentially accessing consumer’s data and information. As seen previously during the end life of former operating systems, such as Windows XP
“To ensure users do not fall victim to cybercrime related to Windows 7, users should seek an update immediately to ensure they’re supported by a system that is supported with security updates. It’s also a great time to update your cybersecurity software to ensure its providing you with the most up-to-date features that ensure protection across not only your computer or laptop, but your mobile devices too.”
If you are still using Windows 7 then the advice is clear, you must make the switch to Windows 10 soon if you want to keep your device free from security issues and viruses.
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