Saturday, March 29, 2025
Millions of Windows 10 Users Shocked as Microsoft Ends Support — Security and Hacking Risks Surge
Updated: October 14, 2025 | 10:29 PM
Millions of Windows 10 users around the world — including a large number in India — are in for a shock as Microsoft has officially ended support for the popular operating system. The announcement has left many users wondering: Will my laptop or PC still work now that Windows 10 support has ended? Here’s what it means, and what options users have going forward.
Although Microsoft launched Windows 11 four years ago, a significant number of users have yet to upgrade. According to The Guardian, as of September 2025, around 40% of all Windows users worldwide were still running Windows 10. In the UK alone, nearly five million people continue to use the old system — leaving them vulnerable to potential cyberattacks and security breaches.
Microsoft’s decision to end support doesn’t mean your PC will stop functioning. Your computer will continue to work as usual, but as of October 14, 2025, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive feature updates or technical support from Microsoft.
This means no new software improvements, no bug fixes, and — most importantly — no security patches, which protect your computer from emerging online threats.
Without regular updates, systems running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and hacking attempts. Cybercriminals often target outdated software because it lacks defenses against newly developed attack methods. As a result, millions of users could find their data at risk unless they take protective action soon.
Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to Windows 11, which has been built to meet modern cybersecurity standards. If your computer is less than four years old, it will likely support Windows 11. Microsoft has also released a free compatibility tool to help users check if their device can handle the upgrade.
For those who cannot upgrade immediately, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that will continue providing critical protection until October 13, 2026.
Users who sign in with a Microsoft account can access this service for free.
Others can purchase it for about $30 (₹2,500) or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points.
If you choose not to upgrade or enroll in the ESU program, your system will remain operational — but without new updates or technical support. Over time, your PC will become less secure and more prone to viruses and hacking attempts.
Experts warn that staying on an unsupported OS exposes your device to data theft, identity fraud, and online scams. Therefore, upgrading to Windows 11 or using Microsoft’s extended protection is the safest option for all Windows 10 users.
