What Cybersecurity Concerns Exist for Windows 10 Now that Support Is Ending

The countdown is on. Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025.  

Windows 10 is the most used version of Windows, accounting for 54.23% of the worldwide market share as of March 2025. This means that millions of businesses and individuals alike are at risk of running unsupported systems that cybercriminals will inevitably target. 

The End of Support and What It Means for Security 

Microsoft routinely rolls out security patches to address vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. Take the company’s September 2024 Patch Tuesday rollout, for example. Microsoft released updates for 79 vulnerabilities, seven of which were rated critical with the remaining 72 classified as important or moderate. 

But after October 2025, those types of updates would stop. Any new security gaps will go unpatched, making Windows 10 systems a prime target for cybercriminals.  

Additionally, compatibility issues with security tools and critical applications may arise. Many applications may phase out support for Windows 10 and businesses relying on Windows 10 for essential software like Microsoft Teams may also encounter security risks and compliance gaps if they do not migrate in time. 

Key Cybersecurity Risks for Windows 10 Users 

Cyberattacks are escalating at an alarming rate and AI-driven phishing tactics are becoming more sophisticated: 

• 59% of organizations experienced ransomware attacks
• Since ChatGPT's launch, phishing attempts through malicious email incidents have increased by 4,151% 
• In 2024, the global average cost of a data breach reached $4.88 million, marking a 10% increase from the previous year 

Here’s how running Windows 10 after support ends could put businesses at risk: 

• Increased Exposure to Cyber Threats: Without security updates, Windows 10 users are more susceptible to zero-day attacks, malware, and other cyber threats.
• Compliance and Regulatory Challenges: Industries such as healthcare, finance, and government need to adhere to strict cybersecurity regulations. Running an unsupported OS can lead to compliance violations, fines, and legal liability in the event of a breach. 
• Business Disruptions and Financial Risks: History shows the dangers of outdated systems. In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack exploited an unpatched Windows vulnerability, infecting 230,000 computers across 150 countries. Although Microsoft had released a patch before the attack, many users failed to update, leading to major disruptions. With Windows 10 support ending, businesses risk facing similar threats if they don’t upgrade in time. 

Proactive Steps to Secure Your Business Before Windows 10 Support Ends 

The transition away from Windows 10 may seem overwhelming, with concerns about migration costs, and downtime. Taking proactive steps now can help businesses mitigate risks and maintain security. Here’s what to focus on: 

1. Upgrade to Windows 11 

Migrating to a supported operating system ensures ongoing security updates, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and compliance violations. Windows 11 offers enhanced security and performance features as well as a new design.  

2. Implement Extended Security Updates (ESU)

If an immediate upgrade isn’t feasible, Microsoft’s paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program provides critical security patches for a limited time. This serves as a temporary safeguard while planning a full transition.

3. Strengthen Endpoint Protection

Deploy advanced security and response tools and endpoint detection to offset the risks of running an outdated OS. A layered security approach helps protect against evolving threats. 

4. Adopt Network Segmentation and Zero Trust Strategies

Reduce vulnerabilities by restricting access to critical systems and data. Implementing a Zero Trust model ensures that no user or device is automatically trusted, minimizing the attack surface for legacy systems. 

How an IT Solutions Firm Can Support Your Windows 11 Migration 

Partnering with an IT solutions firm can simplify migration, enhance security, and minimize disruptions, helping your business stay protected in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. 

Assessment and Migration Planning 

An IT solutions firm can provide a comprehensive Windows 11 migration service, evaluating your existing hardware and software to determine compatibility with the new operating system. They can help identify potential upgrade challenges and create a strategic migration plan to ensure a smooth transition. 

Security Audits 

IT solutions experts conduct in-depth security assessments to identify vulnerabilities in your current system. They implement risk mitigation strategies to strengthen your cybersecurity posture and protect against emerging threats. 

Managed IT and Cybersecurity Services 

For businesses unable to upgrade immediately, IT solutions firms provide ongoing monitoring, patch management, and cybersecurity support. This ensures continued protection and compliance while you plan your transition to a supported operating system. 

Final Thoughts 

Running an outdated operating system is an open invitation to cybercriminals. Businesses should plan a controlled migration now to avoid an emergency response later. 

CTG helps businesses move to Windows 11 seamlessly, with migration plans designed to keep downtime low, security tight, and your team working without disruption. Contact CTG for a comprehensive, smooth, secure, and stress-free Windows 11 migration.