Microsoft has warned users around the world of an increasing risk of being exposed to cyber attacks, as the end of support for the Windows 10 operating system approaches on October 14, ten years after its launch.
The company confirmed that devices that have not been updated to Windows 11 or have not been registered in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will be more vulnerable to malware and viruses, due to the cessation of providing them with security updates and technical support.
Youssef Mahdi, Executive Director at Microsoft, said in a post on the company’s blog: “Microsoft will not provide security updates, features, or technical support for computers running Windows 10. Although the devices will continue to work, they will be more vulnerable to electronic threats.”
According to StatCounter Global Stats data, more than 40% of Windows users around the world still rely on the old system, making millions of devices at risk of imminent security exposure.
Lisa Barber, technology editor at Which?, said: “Our research indicates that millions of users are not yet ready to stop using Windows 10 next week. Ignoring the update could make them more vulnerable to hacking and cyber attacks.”
Microsoft called on users to verify their devices’ eligibility for the free upgrade to Windows 11 through the following path: Start > Settings > Update and Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
As for devices that do not meet Windows 11 requirements, their owners can register in the ESU program, which provides critical security updates for an additional year until October 13, 2026, without including improvements or technical support.
Mahdi concluded by saying that moving to the latest system is “a natural part of the software life cycle,” stressing that continuing to use “Windows 10” after the specified date “may affect the performance of applications and increase digital security risks.”
