Microsoft released an emergency patch update to include fixes for the older versions of Windows and Windows Server dating back to 2001 releases, like XP.
The emergency fix contains previously released patches for Windows bugs, which could have potentially exploited more recently released versions of Windows Operating Systems.
The exploit that forced Windows to protect out-of-support Operating Systems was the worldwide attack of the leaked NSA tools WannnaCry and EternalBLue.
Microsoft has now released a patch for the unsupported Operating Systems, although they had previously said it would not issue out-of-support patches.
Out-of-support refers to the date Operating systems that Microsoft will no longer provide automatic fixes, updates or online technical assistance. Without the Microsoft support, you will no longer receive the updates necessary to keep your PC safe from malicious software that can steal your personal information.
Mark James, ESET IT Security Specialist, discusses why Microsoft made the initial decision to not patch the older systems, and why it is important to keep up to date with patches and updates.
“At the end of the day Microsoft do not want to be the bad guys here.
“They want you to have a safe Operating System (OS) to work with, and ideally stay with forever, but like any other company they have to move forward, adapt and provide safer more secure OS’s as the landscape changes.
“It’s just not possible to provide updates and patches for every OS they have produced so far, so they have to draw the line.
“The problem is of course the bad guys know this.
“They know if you find an exploit or vulnerability, it won’t be patched, or at least they thought they did.
“If patching is possible then it’s in Microsoft’s interest to do so, but the longer we patch up the holes with plasters and straw the more the public will continue to use an Operating System that is quite simply insecure and should be retired.
“We have to take responsibility for our own security.
“It’s not anyone else’s fault, and it’s not someone else’s job.
“You simply would not allow your house to use flimsy front doors, or windows only partially pained so why base your digital existence on a similar model?”
Are you still using an old Windows OS, like XP or Windows 7? Let us know on Twitter @ESETUK.
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