Microsoft Windows 10 version 1507 has not been getting monthly security updates since May 9. However, there is still a large number of users sticking to the version, so Microsoft has decided to send them desktop notifications pushing them to upgrade to the latest version, which is currently Windows 10 Creators Update version 1703, notes Engadget.
Please use latest Windows 10 version: Microsoft
Over the past couple of months, ransomware has disrupted industries around the globe. Older versions of Windows have helped spread such cyber-attacks. Thus, Microsoft has been asked repeatedly to offer better security updates to those versions. So the company is not taking any chances and is doing everything it can, like sending upgrade notifications.
“If you’re currently running Windows 10 version 1507, you’ll receive a notification that your device needs the latest security updates and will attempt to update your device,” the company said in a blog post.
Although users still holding on to older versions will not be forced to upgrade, the notification will be compulsive and will supposedly pop up on the screen repeatedly. Users have no reason to resist the upgrade, as after upgrading, they will be less prone to ransomware attacks and various other forms of cyber crime, such as NotPetya.
Problem with upgrading to new versions
According to Ars Technica, the picture is gloomy when it comes to upgrading. The report states that as of late April, only 10% of users updated their systems to Windows version 1703. Therefore, Microsoft is left with no choice but to send repeated notifications to urge users to upgrade to the latest version. Users who have already upgraded to the latest version should go through their privacy settings, which will inform them about the Fall Creators Update.
One concern is the extensive amount of space that the upgrade will take. Upgrading to the newest version will also risk a system slowdown, and there could be some outdated software that will not be compatible with the latest Windows 10 version. Those who upgraded from Windows 7 to Windows 10 might be aware of the issues user could face in the process, notes 1reddrop.
Nevertheless, with deadly ransomware attacks on the rise, it’s high time that users pay attention to what Microsoft has to say and follow the upgrade instruction. Microsoft unveiled Windows 10 version 1703 in April.
A rising threat of cyber-attacks
Ransomware and cyber-weapons such as NotPetya are based on an NSA hack tool that was designed for older Windows versions. Microsoft, which has done an in-depth analysis of the latest Petya attack, notes that most of the systems hit by such ransomware were running older Windows versions.
Microsoft stated that the intensity of the Petya attack, whose origin was traced to Ukraine, was less than that of the WannaCry attack, but Petya affected high-profile victims such as bigger organizations and businesses in Europe.
Just a few days ago, Microsoft also unveiled a non-security update for Windows 10 systems and stated that a new framework is being tested on Widows Insiders. The update, dubbed big KB4022716, is basically aimed at better fixes of issues ranging from printing to logins.
