MILLIONS have been cautioned that 16 widely used apps will soon become unsafe.
is discontinuing support for several older software versions next week – a routine procedure among technology giants.
Popular applications such as Word and Excel are impacted.
The most notable departure is .
However, few are aware that the company’s primary software suite is also undergoing significant changes.
is the essential collection of applications, featuring well-known names like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
However, two older versions will no longer receive support from Microsoft starting October 14.
The end of support poses a significant risk for users who continue to utilize the as it indicates that the company’s tech team has ceased providing security updates for any critical flaws that may arise.
These vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers, who could potentially access your documents and even your bank accounts if they gain control of your device.
Therefore, it is crucial to stop using unsupported software and upgrade.
“Continuing to use software after its end of support can leave your devices susceptible to potential security threats, productivity declines, and compliance concerns,” warned Jeremy Carlson, Microsoft’s director of product marketing for Microsoft 365.
“Now is the time to transition all remaining devices running Office 2016 or Office 2019 to a supported version.”
The two versions facing discontinuation are Office 2016 and Office 2019.
Together, they encompass 16 applications, including:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- OneNote
- Outlook
- Publisher
- Access
- Skype for Business
WHY DOES SOFTWARE STOP WORKING?
By , Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun
Ensuring software and apps remain secure requires specialists to protect them from hackers.
And maintaining this level of security is not inexpensive.
As time goes on, users transition away from older applications.
Eventually, it becomes impractical to continue providing updates, leading companies to discontinue support.
This doesn’t necessarily mean the software will cease to function, but it does make it risky.
Thus, upgrading is always the best option.
Image credit: Getty
