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Microsoft no longer supports Windows 7. There are no updates and security patches and haven’t been since January 2020. That means that a hacker (or attacker) can compromise a computer running it. They can also compromise the network and possibly any computer connected to it.
Are you still using Windows 7?
If you are still using Windows 7, quarantine the computer by disconnecting it from the Internet and your network! Most printers nowadays connect to the Internet too, so unplug printers from it. The computer should stand alone with nothing connected to it.
Attackers use the Internet to connect to computers and install exploit-code that takes advantage of the operating system’s vulnerabilities. Exploits enable attackers to compromise the system and run the code of their choice. Since security updates are no longer available to address vulnerabilities in Windows 7, secure it by disconnecting it from the Internet, your network, and all other devices.
Does Anti-virus and Anti-malware Software Protect You?
Some companies claim anti-virus software installed on computers running Windows 7 can help block attacks and clean up infections if they occur. When you can’t update the operating system, attackers who know of exploits in Windows 7 could use them to compromise the computer anyway. It would be best if you didn’t trust anti-virus software against these vulnerabilities.
Updates Keep You Safe from Known Security Holes
One of the simplest but most important security precautions you can take is to keep your operating system, such as Microsoft Windows, and the software you’ve added up to date. Updates help protect you from known security holes.
Software companies typically provide an automatic updating feature that will tell you when a new update is available. Install updates when prompted and remove old, outdated software because doing so can prevent significant problems later on.
Microsoft states, “going forward, the best way for you to stay secure is on Windows 10.”