The Windows XP operating system is no longer supported by Microsoft. If you continue to run XP then you are vulnerable to security threats. Now is the time to upgrade and this is why….
- Known vulnerabilities will no longer be fixed
Since April 8 updates to Windows XP are no longer provided by Microsoft to fix known vulnerabilities. Similar to leaving your front door unlocked to burglars, hackers can now exploit new vulnerabilities found in XP because they know Microsoft is no longer proactively fixing them.
Your Internet browser and device drivers that enable the proper operation of your system will also be left behind. There is one particularly troubling security problem for an outdated version of Internet Explorer that runs on Windows XP (v8.0) that allows malicious software to enter your PC and gives the author full control of that system. Hackers use this vulnerability to install the “RAT Poison Ivy” software which gives them even more control of a single PC, and access to other systems. - Legal liability is a possibility
If you continue to use Windows XP in your office then you may be putting your client’s data at risk. Some lawyers postulate that leaving these outdated systems in use might constitute negligence on the part of the organisation. One of the most common elements that impacts liability for data loss is the concept of “reasonableness.” In other words, what is a reasonable and prudent set of actions to protect someone’s private information and data? This is where ignoring the advice of the manufacturer and running outdated software such as Windows XP presents a very real potential vulnerability. - Software that runs on XP is also outdated
The security tools and software needed created by other software vendors (not Microsoft) to protect Windows XP PCs will also be discontinued, if not already. Key security software vendors such as Symantec, McAfee, and Trend Micro have already announced that they are ceasing or dramatically cutting back their support for Windows XP. Existing security software may run but without the updated virus signatures and technology to stop the latest threats Windows XP systems may end up effectively “defenceless”.
Need to upgrade?
Please contact us and we will discuss your options for upgrading to the latest Microsoft Operating System.