"Windows 10 Still Prevalent on Multiple Computers: Russian Roulette"
The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has recommended that users of Apple Macintosh computers and the free Linux system consider switching from Windows 10 as its support is set to end on October 14, 2025. This decision comes with significant security risks for users who continue to use outdated versions of Windows 10, as Microsoft will cease providing security updates, bug fixes, and technical support.
According to reports, cybercriminals are eagerly waiting to exploit any vulnerabilities in unsupported Windows 10 systems. This lack of patches leaves systems vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and cyberattacks that exploit known vulnerabilities. In addition, software compatibility and performance issues may arise, potentially disrupting productivity and increasing operational costs.
Other key risks include increased exposure to cyber threats, regulatory and compliance issues, and hardware and feature limitations. Unsupported systems are attractive targets for cybercriminals, risking sensitive data breaches and ransomware attacks. For sectors like fintech, non-compliance with security standards due to outdated OS use can result in penalties and loss of customer trust. Windows 11, the supported successor, requires hardware features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, making upgrades challenging and costly for some older devices.
However, there are mitigation strategies available. Users can consider upgrading to Windows 11 where hardware is compatible, purchasing extended support (paid options) or migrating to specialized Windows 10 versions like IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, which continue receiving updates until 2032. Replacing incompatible devices is another option, while using additional security measures and educating users about the dangers of unsupported systems can provide some protection, but they cannot fully compensate for missing system updates.
A lawsuit against Microsoft challenges its strategy of ending Windows 10 support to push Windows 11 adoption, arguing that continued updates for Windows 10 could be technically feasible, yet are withheld to monopolize the market. This highlights some user concerns about forced upgrade pressure, but from a security standpoint, staying on unsupported systems is risky.
As of now, around 24.7 million PCs in German households, businesses, government agencies, and organizations are running Windows 10. Approximately 57% of all Windows computers in Germany are still equipped with Windows 10. Market research firm Gartner predicts a "period of uncertainty" in PC purchases due to increased economic and geopolitical risks.
Microsoft offers an additional year of Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30 (around €27) to private users and commercial customers. However, IT security expert Alexander Opel warns that using an outdated operating system is risky and can lead to data breaches. He advises companies to perform an upgrade now, as the costs of support are likely to outweigh the benefits for many organizations.
In conclusion, continuing to use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025, in Germany entails increased cybersecurity risks, compliance challenges, and operational disruptions. The recommended path is to prepare for a transition to Windows 11 or explore available extended support options while planning hardware upgrades if necessary. It's irresponsible to operate a business with outdated systems, as it leaves hackers an opening for successful cyberattacks.
Despite the availability of extra security updates for a fee, using an unsupported Windows 10 system may lead to increased cybersecurity risks, particularly from malware and ransomware. The technology landscape, characterized by evolving cybersecurity threats, requires maintaining up-to-date systems to safeguard data effectively.
