12 month countdown to new hacker headache for Northampton businesses

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Northampton computer IT support company warns of upcoming major technology problem that will affect many local businesses. Computer and laptop repair experts offers guidance on IT security.


Another major new technology problem is heading towards businesses in Northampton – with around half of them thought to be affected.


In January NEXT year (2020), a large amount of standard Microsoft software reaches the end of its life. That means it will no longer be supported by Microsoft – and will not be safe to use.


This includes the popular Windows 7 operating system; Office 2010; and some software that powers company servers.


“The problem is that once Microsoft ends the life of this software in just 12 months’ time, it will become a shining beacon for hackers,” warned local data security expert Peter Ravi at Proactive IT Support Ltd.


“We already believe that some hackers are storing up vulnerabilities they have found in this software. By waiting till Microsoft stops supporting it, they effectively become unstoppable.There is already an increase in reported cyber crime and with local police underfunded to cope with current threats, this is another technology disaster waiting to happen.”


He added: “Our advice to local companies is not to risk using this software past January 2020, and to get expert advice about replacing it this year.”


“It can take months to implement replacement software and put robust security precautions in place, so businesses shouldn’t leave it till the end of the year.”


The software that will be affected includes:


· Windows 7


· Office 2010


· Exchange 2010


· Small Business Server 2011


· Windows Server 2008


Peter has written a non-techy guide, showing local business owners and managers how to identify whether they are using any of this software, just by what they see on their screen.


You can get this guide free at Proactive IT Support Ltd


Proactive IT Support Ltd was formed many years ago and now looks after hundreds of local businesses in the Northampton and Milton Keynes area.

Release ID: 476265