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Microsoft Corp.

Windows 10 Support Ends: Millions at Risk Without Security Updates

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As Microsoft prepares to end standard support for Windows 10 in mid-October, nearly half of all Windows PCs will be left without crucial security updates and patches, leaving consumers and businesses vulnerable to attacks. Security experts warn that vulnerable devices will become permanent entry points for attackers, exposing files, personal data, and passwords. Avast's Security Evangelist, Luis Corrons, emphasizes that the end of support is not the end of the world, but it marks the end of free safety nets, making unpatched Windows and driver bugs long-lived entry points for attackers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nearly half of all Windows PCs are still operating on Windows 10, making them vulnerable to security risks.
  • Microsoft will no longer provide standard updates and patches for Windows 10 devices in mid-October, unless they are enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme.
  • Consumers and businesses are urged to upgrade to Windows 11 if eligible, or enroll in the ESU programme if upgrading is not possible.
  • To improve security for those continuing to use Windows 10, measures such as keeping browsers and third-party applications up to date, removing the SMB1 protocol, and enabling multi-factor authentication are recommended.
  • Businesses are advised to run an inventory of Windows 10 endpoints, segment their networks, and plan hardware refresh cycles for machines that cannot be upgraded.
  • The cost of ESU for businesses starts at approximately USD $61 per device for the first year and increases annually thereafter.
  • Users are cautioned to be wary of scams preying on those transitioning to newer operating systems, and to only trust official notifications from Microsoft.

Statistics:

  • Nearly 50% of all Windows PCs are still operating on Windows 10 (Source: Microsoft).
  • Microsoft will no longer provide standard updates and patches for Windows 10 devices in mid-October (Source: Microsoft).
  • The cost of ESU for businesses starts at USD $61 per device for the first year (Source: Avast).
  • The ESU programme is available free for consumers in the EU and EEA for the first year (Source: Avast).

Sources:

  • Microsoft: Windows 10 Support Ends
  • Avast: Guidance for Consumers and Businesses
  • Global Data Point: Windows 10 Support Ends: Millions at Risk Without Security Updates (2022)
  • SyndiGate Media Inc.: Windows 10 Support Ends: Millions at Risk Without Security Updates (2022)

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