Microsoft ends Windows 10 support, exposing millions to hackers

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10, one of the world’s most popular operating systems today, a move that leaves hundreds of millions of users exposed to cyber-attacks and data theft.

It has been officially confirmed that Microsoft will no longer provide security feature updates for Windows 10 from Tuesday, October 14.

An estimated 5 million people from the UK still use laptops and PCs that run Windows 10.

Meanwhile, security experts have advised them to create a comprehensive backup of their data in the case of a cyber-attack or an issue with their system upgrade.

The devices that continue to run Windows 10 after the deadline passes will experience impaired function and a decline in performance.

Cyber security advisor Matt Balderstone who works at IT platform CyberArk, warned of the urgent need to upgrade any systems still running Windows 10, or risk repeating calamitous events from the past like the WannaCry attack that targeted the NHS.

Another major concern arising in this era of escalating digital vulnerability, cyberattacks have been targeting businesses.

Therefore, it is crucial that consumers and businesses work to update their systems to avoid security risks

Meanwhile, people with devices that are eligible can upgrade to Windows 11 or sign up to Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

Experts have warned that anyone who has not upgraded by today's deadline should be wary of suspicious phone calls and emails.

A security expert at cyber defense from Avast, Luis Corron's said, “Attackers know that which is why unpatched Windows and driver bugs become long-lived entry points. It is also an opportunity for scammers and people may see fake pop-ups, upgrades or even get phone calls pretending to be from Microsoft.”