Microsoft is going to end the support for Windows 10 PCs next month and security experts are once again raising the alarm bells for millions of Windows PC users. The free Windows 10 update and support ends on October 14 which is technically less than a month from now, and more push is coming from consumer bodies, asking the company to reverse its decision.
In fact, they have reportedly drafted a letter addressing Microsoft chief Satya Nadella to intervene and make this big call. The body claims that ending Windows 10 support without offering a legitimate solution will leave millions vulnerable to security issues and cyber attacks.
Microsoft’s Windows 10 Conundrum: Millions Left In Lurch
The body representing the consumers has cited reports where
the threat of cyber attacks on Windows 10 PCs is a big concern. Cybersecurity firm ESET had claimed that hackers might be already eyeing these people whose systems will become vulnerable as the security support runs out in the next few weeks.
It has been a puzzling move from Microsoft, especially when over 45 percent of the PC market is still running on the Windows 10 version. What makes it worse is that the company introduced a special requirement to run Windows 11 which has rendered millions of PCs obsolete from October even though they are in good shape.
The body claims Microsoft is being hypocritical by asking customers to upgrade for their security but at the same time making Windows 10 PC vulnerable because of its support deadline.
The consumer bodies are worried, not just because of the cybersecurity issues but the bigger e-waste problem that will arise when the millions of obsolete PCs are dumped into the oblivion. Most reports are quoting 400 million as the figure of PCs that will be unsecure and get slower over time which people will look to replace.
Microsoft does have a one-year Windows 10 update extension support but that costs $30 (Rs 2,610 approx) which might not be feasible for everyone. With the deadline just a few weeks away, expecting a rollback from Microsoft is unrealistic but external pressure could change the stand.