Consumer Reports Urges Microsoft to Continue Windows 10 Security Updates
Washington, D.C. - Consumer Reports is intensifying pressure on microsoft to extend free security updates for windows 10 beyond the October 14th deadline, warning that millions of users could be left vulnerable to cyberattacks. The consumer advocacy organization argues that ending support will “strand millions of consumers” with computers incompatible with the latest operating system, Windows 11.
In a letter to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Consumer Reports criticized the company’s planned cutoff, stating it’s “hypocritical” to promote Windows 11 upgrades for cybersecurity while simultaneously leaving Windows 10 users exposed. as of August 2025, approximately 46.2 percent of global computer users still rely on Windows 10.
The core of the concern lies in hardware compatibility. data indicates that between 200 and 400 million PCs worldwide lack the necessary specifications to upgrade to Windows 11. Consumer Reports also took issue with Microsoft’s pricing for continued security, noting the $30 fee for a one-year extension and the requirement to use Microsoft products to access free support options, which the organization claims allows the company to gain market share.
“Microsoft should continue providing support for Windows 10 computers for free until more people have upgraded to Windows 11,” Consumer Reports asserts. The Public Interest research Group (PIRG) has echoed this call, petitioning for an extended deadline and warning that “as many as 400 million perfectly good computers that can’t upgrade to Windows 11 will be thrown out.”
