About 5 million British computer users are at risk of cyberattacks and scams as Microsoft ends security updates for its decade-old Windows 10 operating system next week, consumer campaigners have warned. The focus keyword is Windows 10 update.
A new survey by consumer group Which? found that one in four of the 21 million UK users of Windows 10 plan to continue using the system even after Microsoft halts updates, exposing them to potential threats such as malware, data theft, and viruses. Over a third of those at risk are people aged above 55, who are least likely to take immediate action.
The move will also contribute to rising electronic waste, as millions of older PCs worldwide are expected to become obsolete. Microsoft is urging users to recycle their old hardware through official programs and is encouraging upgrades to Windows 11 where possible.
Industry analysts estimate that around 13% of computers currently running Windows 10 will need to be replaced due to hardware incompatibility with the newer version. For users whose devices qualify, upgrading to Windows 11 is the simplest fix. Microsoft is also offering a one-year extended security update plan, giving users until October 2026 to make the transition.
Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech, warned that “millions of people may be unprepared for the phasing out of Windows 10 next week. If your laptop or PC still runs Windows 10 or older, now is the time to act before becoming more vulnerable to hackers.”
Microsoft executive vice president Yusuf Mehdi confirmed that once support ends, “devices will be more vulnerable to cyber-threats such as malware and viruses.” He added that applications depending on Windows 10 “may no longer be supported” and could lose functionality.
What Happens After October 14, 2025
Starting October 14, Microsoft will no longer provide software updates, security patches, or technical support for Windows 10 PCs. While the system will continue to function, it will be more exposed to cyber risks and performance issues. Microsoft says Windows 11 has been built with “heightened security by default” to meet modern digital threats.
How to Stay Safe
To reduce risk, users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 for free if their PC supports it — most computers less than four years old qualify. Devices require at least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Alternatively, users can switch to other operating systems like Linux or Chrome OS. For unsupported hardware, Microsoft’s one-year Extended Security Update (ESU) plan provides temporary protection until October 2026.
Barber warned that failing to act could leave millions of devices exposed to hackers: “They are going to target people, exploit weaknesses, and steal your data.”
