BSI warns: "Windows 10 is becoming insecure" – Quick change required

IT security experts have been warning for months of a "security fiasco" if millions of Windows 10 computers are kept running without updates from the fall. Background: Microsoft will discontinue support for the widely used operating system on October 14, 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive free updates. This also applies to updates that are security-relevant and close vulnerabilities. The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has also issued a warning: anyone who continues to use Windows 10 risks cybercriminals exploiting security vulnerabilities and causing damage.

In an appeal issued on Monday, the BSI urges all current Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 in good time or to switch to another operating system with updates, such as Linux. Only a few variants of Windows 10 designed for the corporate sector are an exception. LTSC ("Long Term Servicing Channel") is such an update channel reserved for corporate customers for the expensive enterprise version with long-term support.

"The end of support for Windows 10 presents consumers with an important decision," says Nora Kluger, expert for digital consumer protection at the BSI. "Continuing to use an operating system for which there are no more security updates opens the door to attackers."

Fresh software wind for digital sovereignty

Without regular updates, Windows computers in particular are much more susceptible to malware such as Trojans, viruses or ransomware due to their widespread use. Even if antivirus software can potentially still detect threats, the basic protection of the operating system is no longer guaranteed. Companies that continue to operate insecure systems could also be in breach of data protection regulations. This in turn could result in high fines. Furthermore, other software updates, new programs and hardware drivers may no longer work properly under Windows 10.

"Before upgrading or switching to a different operating system, you should carry out a data backup to prevent possible data loss," the BSI has another tip to offer. It refers to a step-by-step guide on its own website. Consumers should also check whether their device meets the hardware requirements for the respective system. If not, it may be necessary to replace or purchase a new PC. Migration also poses challenges for public authorities: The Berlin administration, for example, is massively lagging behind when it comes to updating to Windows 11.

At the same time, the Information Technology Society (ITG) in the electrical engineering and IT association VDE is campaigning for a "breath of fresh air in software use for more digital sovereignty". It is difficult to replace Windows with Linux, especially in complex IT environments with many specialist applications, they say. In general, open standards and interfaces as well as a modular architecture are essential in order to "ensure the greatest possible interoperability and flexibility". The testing and scaling of open source software in public institutions could be a start. It needs "time to get used to it and the willingness of many to take this step". The wind of change is already blowing quite strongly in Schleswig-Holstein.

(mma)