Security disaster: 5,2 million computers in Germany use outdated Windows versions. 4 million of them work with Windows 7 and over a million with ancient Windows 8, XP or Vista.
Windows operating systems have a market share of around 80 percent for desktop PCs and notebooks in Germany. The good news: Most of the devices in use use the current Windows 10. However, a closer look at the figures reveals a very worrying security situation: 5,2 million devices are using outdated Windows versions. Windows 4 is still installed on 7 million computers alone, although Microsoft's support for the operating system ended a good year ago. And Windows 8, XP or Vista are used on more than a million PCs. Operating systems that have not been updated for years. Uncovered security gaps for these Windows versions are no longer closed by Microsoft updates and can be exploited by cyber criminals. In particular, the operating system used is an important pillar to ensure the security of the device and the entire network.
Old Windows = high risk
“Many users underestimate the security risk of an outdated Windows version. One weak point is enough and the computers are open like a barn door for cyber criminals, ”explains Thomas Uhlemann, Security Specialist at ESET. “This behavior is negligent. Information about known security gaps spreads rapidly in underground forums and is used for a multitude of attack scenarios. ”The use of operating system dinosaurs can be extremely problematic in the event of damage. “For companies, the use can be very expensive as soon as personal data is processed on these devices, because the EU General Data Protection Regulation clearly requires compliance with the state of the art. Likewise, regulations by cyber insurers or financial service providers may become obsolete in the event of damage. "
Millions of old Windows PCs still online
The vast majority (41 million) of desktop PCs and notebooks in Germany are using the current Windows 10. Around 2 million devices continue to use 8.1, which will receive security updates until 2023. Although it was possible to switch to Windows 10 from old versions free of charge, around 11 percent of computers still have an outdated operating system installed. That is over 5 million devices in Germany alone. This means an enormous security risk for internet users.
Negligence in the event of damage caused by online banking
Many users are well aware that the access data for online banking and the TAN number should not be given to strangers. A modern and always up-to-date operating system is just as much a duty of care as the use of a modern security solution or an up-to-date browser. In the event of damage, banks can reject a claim for compensation because the customer negligently neglected his obligations. Cyber insurance companies also refuse to regulate this in many cases. Users should regularly check their computer, which they use for online banking, for updates.
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