BRITS have been given a final warning to stop using Windows 10 or they could face being attacked by cyber criminals.
Official support for but anyone who extended their licence for one year gets support up to October this year.
Microsoft users of Windows 10 will either need to extend their licence or upgrade to Windows 11 (stock image)Credit: Getty
This means that will no longer provide fixes or security updates, leaving your Windows 10 PC will be exposed to who could steal important information, such as your bank account details.
Anyone who does have a Windows 10 PC is likely to have been notified about the upcoming end to support.
Those who have a PC which is eligible for , this includes the option to upgrade for free.
However, not all PCs with Windows 10 will have that spec allowing them to upgrade.
If you are running Windows 7 or 8.1 on your PC, or brought one with these and then later upgraded to Windows 10, it’s almost certain you won’t have the right spec.
Updates to your system means your PC stays secure through security updates and the latest fixes, allowing it to remain protected and your device runs smoothly.
Even though support has ended, Windows 10 will still function but you won’t get security updates unless you take action.
Online criminals and hackers often target unsupported software so they can exploit weaknesses and then steal your information.
In addition, over time user may find that some features or software will no longer work on your PC.
Anyone still using Windows 10 on their PC will be affected.
Research by Which? indicates that the equivalent of around 21million people in the UK own and use a PC running Windows 10.
The consumer group recommends extending your licence, if you haven’t already, which will then extend to October 13, this year.
This will keep you data safe and secure and mean your PC runs smoothly.
You will have to upgrade after October 13.
Previously, Nathan Proctor, senior director of the consumer group PIRG, described the ending of support for Windows 10 as “a looming security disaster for millions of users”.
He said: “Even if cyber criminals discover some way of compromising a device, chances are that researchers will quickly patch those issues.
“When there are no more updates, those quickly-addressed exploits become open doors.”
In October 2025, Paul Roberts, president of the Secure Resilient Future Foundation said: “Microsoft should reconsider its decision to end support for Windows 10 and prioritise public health and safety.”
Check eligibility
Microsoft offers a free upgrade to if your PC is eligible.
To check eligibility, go to settings on your device, then Privacy and Security, and click Windows Update.
The computer company urges users to purchase a new PC if their old device cannot use the new Windows 11 system.
Users can use the trade-in programme to get cash-back if they buy a new device after handing in their old one.
also offers a similar trade-in programme for shoppers who wish to buy a new computer through the electrical retailer.
Windows 10 users will have to upgrade to Windows 11, even if they have extended their licence, by October 13 this year (stock image)Credit: Getty
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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