Only 8 percent of German PC users still use Windows 7 - but worldwide it is still 22 percent, although Microsoft has not provided any security updates for it for a long time. Windows 7 companies are particularly at risk.
A current Kaspersky analysis - based on anonymous OS metadata released by Kaspersky Security Network users - shows that almost a quarter (22 percent) of PC users worldwide still use Windows 7, even though there are no more security updates available for it be asked. In Germany, only eight percent of users still stick to Windows 7.
Just because Windows 7 works is not safe
Even if a trustworthy operating system that is no longer supported by a manufacturer appears to work on the surface, it is not safe. Due to a lack of security updates, cyber criminals are potentially given the opportunity to gain access to a system. Private and corporate networks can only be adequately protected against cyber threats by regularly updating operating systems.
Particular caution is required with SMEs
The proportion of users who continue to use Windows 7 worldwide is the same at 22 percent each among private users, small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) and very small companies. Small companies in particular that do not have dedicated IT security staff should be vigilant here and keep their operating system up to date. In Germany, 7 percent of companies of this size are still using Windows 7. At the moment, companies still have the option of receiving extended, fee-based support.
The results of the Kaspersky analysis also show that, internationally and in Germany, less than one percent still use older operating systems such as Windows XP and Vista, the support of which ended in 2014 and 2017, respectively. Overall, however, almost a quarter (24 percent) worldwide continue to use a Windows operating system without mainstream support. In Germany it is only 8 percent.
However, 88 percent of the German respondents to the Kaspersky Security Network - both in the private and corporate sectors - already use Windows 10, the latest version of the Windows operating system that offers a high level of security.
88% use Windows 10 - XP and Vista 1%
“Updating the operating system can seem like a nuisance to many. But operating system updates are not just there to fix bugs or activate the latest interface, ”comments Oleg Gorobets, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Kaspersky. “The updates fix bugs that cybercriminals could use for their malicious activities. Even if users are supposedly vigilant and feel safe online, updating your own operating system is an essential security element that should not be neglected, even if a security solution is installed. "
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About Kaspersky Kaspersky is an international cybersecurity company founded in 1997. Kaspersky's in-depth threat intelligence and security expertise serve as the basis for innovative security solutions and services to protect companies, critical infrastructures, governments and private users worldwide. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection as well as a range of specialized security solutions and services to defend against complex and evolving cyber threats. Kaspersky technologies protect over 400 million users and 250.000 corporate customers. More information about Kaspersky can be found at www.kaspersky.com/