If you’re still using an old version of Windows it really might be time to consider upgrading to something new. Latest research from leading threat intelligence firm Mandiant has revealed the full extent of cyber attacks against all of the most popular operating systems and Windows is by far the most targeted software on the planet.

Considering that it’s also the most used OS across the globe that probably doesn’t sound surprising. However, what is worrying is the amount of so-called “zero-day” threats that have recently been unleashed against Windows.

For those not aware zero-day means the glitch has already been spotted by hackers and is being actively exploited in the wild.

What makes these attacks worse is that all of zero-day vulnerabilities spotted in 2022 were exploited for the purpose of achieving either (primarily remote) code execution or gaining elevated privileges. These threats can lead to crooks gaining full access to a PC which can then allow them to install vicious malware and steal personal data including user names and passwords.

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Mandiant says that desktop operating system exploitation continues to primarily affect Windows, with 15 zero-days attacks on this product in 2022. In comparison, macOS was exploited in only four out of 19 identified OS zero-days.

So why is there such an urgency to upgrade from older operating systems? When a zero-day threat is spotted, firms such as Microsoft will rush to send out a patch to stop any future attacks from taking place.

However, with the Redmond firm now ending all support for older versions of its operating system – including Windows 7 and Windows 8 – it could be a good time to go all in and switch to Windows 11 as these platforms are no longer getting bug fixes and security releases.

Even Windows 10 is facing the end of its life with this hugely popular software being scrapped in 2025.

Mandiant predicts that things could get worse for PC owners in the coming months with the company saying, “We expect that threat actors will continue to pursue the discovery and exploitation of zero-days, as these vulnerabilities provide significant tactical advantages in ease and success rates of exploitation, as well as stealth.” 

This is why switching to something new as soon as possible should be a top priority.

Microsoft also recently urged all users of older Windows-powered machines to consider an upgrade.

Explaining more about the issues of sticking with unsupported software, Microsoft said: “While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 8.1, without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at greater risk for viruses and malware. We recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported. A new device that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience.”

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