What is the threat?
The end of life date for Windows 7 will be January 14, 2020 at which point support will no longer be offered by Microsoft. Computers running older versions of Windows will be susceptible to cyber-attacks and there are serious security implications for any business that continues to use Windows 7 after January 14, 2020.
Why is this noteworthy?
Organizations have found, that the migration is generally an extensive process that can take up to a year or longer to complete.
- With support no longer offered, systems would become an easy target new computer malware and ransomware being created.
- One example would be the WannaCry ransomware attacks in 2017. Most victims were running Windows 7 operating system.
- Windows 10 provides built-in additional security features such as Windows Defender Exploit Guard to help mitigate new attacks.
What is the exposure or risk?
Microsoft won’t assume liability for any security breaches that happen to Windows 7 systems after January 14, 2020. Since new attacks are constantly being created, organizations will be at risk.
What can you do?
If your organization has not upgraded to Windows 10 SkOUT recommends planning for an effective Windows 10 deployment strategy. Planning for a measured and controlled way to release updates will keep your organization protected while not disrupting business operations.
References:
For more in-depth information about the recommendations, please visit the following link:
- https://support.microsoft.com/en-ie/help/4057281/windows-7-support-will-end-on-january-14-2020https://www.infotech.co.uk/blog/windows-7-end-of-life
- https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10855-reasons-to-upgrade-windows-10.html
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-10-vs-windows-7-microsofts-newer-os-is-almost-twice-as-secure/
- https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/itshowcase/preparing-your-organization-for-a-seamless-windows-10-deployment
- https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/threat-protection/windows-defender-exploit-guard/windows-defender-exploit-guard
If you have any questions, please contact our Secure Operations Center.
