Millions of UK Users Vulnerable to Cyber-Attacks with End of Windows 10 Updates Finds Which

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Millions of UK Users Vulnerable to Cyber-Attacks with End of Windows 10 Updates Finds Which

Recent warnings from consumer advocates highlight a significant cybersecurity risk as Microsoft prepares to cease updates for Windows 10. With the end of updates looming, millions of UK users could become targets for cyber-attacks and scams.

Millions at Risk After Windows 10 Update Cessation

Approximately 5 million British computer users are at risk following the imminent end of support for the decade-long Windows 10 operating system. This decision affects around 21 million Windows 10 users in the UK alone. A survey conducted by Which? revealed that one in four users intends to continue operating on an unsupported version. This puts them at heightened risk for online security breaches, including malware and viruses.

Demographics at Risk

The potential vulnerability disproportionately affects individuals aged over 55. More than one-third of those who plan to stick with Windows 10 are in this age group. Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech, emphasized the urgency in addressing this issue. “Millions of people may be unprepared for the phasing out of Windows 10 next week,” she stated.

5 million: Estimated number of users at risk in the UK.
21 million: Total number of Windows 10 users in the UK.
39%: Current users who plan to update their system.
26%: Users intending to continue with Windows 10.

The Global Scope of the Issue

This situation is not limited to the UK; it impacts hundreds of millions of users and businesses worldwide. The transition is anticipated to generate further e-waste, as many outdated PCs will become obsolete. Industry estimates suggest that around 13% of all devices currently running Windows 10 will require replacement.

Mitigating Cyber Threats

Yusuf Mehdi, a Microsoft executive, warned that the lack of updates will make Windows 10 devices increasingly susceptible to cyber threats. Users can take several steps to protect themselves:

Upgrade to Windows 11 if your PC meets the minimum requirements: 4GB RAM and 64GB storage.
Consider alternative operating systems, such as Linux or Chrome OS.
Utilize Microsoft’s one-year extended security update option.

For users whose computers can’t handle an upgrade, purchasing new hardware may be necessary. Many retailers offer trade-in schemes to offset costs. It is advisable to assess your device’s specifications promptly to avoid falling victim to cybercriminals.

Final Thoughts

The end of updates for Windows 10 represents a significant threat to many users. Taking action now can help mitigate these risks and ensure better online security. Checking your system compatibility and considering upgrades or alternatives is essential to protect sensitive data effectively.