by Consumer Reports has called on Microsoft to delay the impending October 14th deadline that will end free security updates for Windows 10 users. The consumer advocacy group argues that such a move could leave millions of people vulnerable to cyberattacks, especially those with PCs that cannot meet the hardware requirements necessary to upgrade to Windows 11. In an open letter addressed to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Consumer Reports requests that Microsoft continue providing updates for Windows 10 users until a more significant portion of the user base has successfully transitioned to Windows 11.
The letter highlights the discrepancy between Microsoft’s security stance and its plan to cut support for Windows 10, which could lead to millions of devices being exposed to security risks. As of August 2025, 46.2 percent of global users are still running Windows 10 on their devices, according to data cited by Consumer Reports. This statistic reflects the widespread reliance on older systems, many of which cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware requirements that Microsoft has set for the newer operating system.
The Windows 11 Upgrade Dilemma
One of the most significant issues raised by Consumer Reports is that many users simply cannot upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft’s new operating system introduces several hardware requirements that limit its compatibility. These include mandatory TPM 2.0 chips and the need for a secure boot. Consequently, it is estimated that 200 to 400 million PCs around the world are unable to meet these specifications. For these users, upgrading to Windows 11 is not an option, meaning they would be left without important security updates if Microsoft does not extend support for Windows 10.
In its letter to Satya Nadella, Consumer Reports has criticized Microsoft for its hypocritical stance. The tech giant has been urging users to upgrade to Windows 11, claiming that it will enhance security. However, by discontinuing free updates for Windows 10, Microsoft will leave millions of devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. This move seems contradictory, as it places users in a position where they are forced to either upgrade to Windows 11 or continue using an outdated and insecure operating system.
The Financial Burden and Consumer Backlash
Adding to the frustration, Microsoft charges a $30 fee for a one-year extension to provide security updates for Windows 10 devices. This fee has been called into question by Consumer Reports, as it seems to further exacerbate the financial burden on consumers who may not be able to afford new hardware or an operating system upgrade. Instead of offering free support, Microsoft is charging customers for an extension that essentially only buys them one more year of security.
By charging a fee for security updates and encouraging consumers to purchase new hardware, Microsoft may be inadvertently pushing people towards products they cannot afford, or alternatively, leaving them exposed to significant security risks without the option of a secure, affordable solution. This, according to Consumer Reports, undermines Microsoft’s responsibility to provide fair and equitable access to critical security updates.
Public Interest and Petition for Change
In addition to Consumer Reports’ call for action, a Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has joined the effort to extend the deadline for Windows 10 support. PIRG has launched a petition calling for Microsoft to continue offering free security updates for Windows 10 devices, citing that as many as 400 million computers are at risk of being abandoned due to their inability to upgrade to Windows 11.
The petition argues that throwing away perfectly good devices is a waste of resources and could contribute to the growing problem of e-waste. With the world already facing environmental challenges, PIRG contends that it is both economically and environmentally irresponsible to discard functional devices simply because they cannot be upgraded to the latest operating system.
For many people, their Windows 10 PCs still perform adequately for basic tasks such as browsing the internet, word processing, and video conferencing. These users should not be forced to discard their machines because they cannot afford to upgrade to a newer system or purchase new hardware. Instead, PIRG calls for Microsoft to provide continued support for the existing user base, ensuring that consumers are not left behind due to circumstances outside their control.
The Implications of Microsoft’s Decision
If Microsoft proceeds with its planned cutoff on October 14th, millions of users will be left exposed to security risks, as their devices will no longer receive important updates. This could lead to an increase in cyberattacks, including malware, ransomware, and other forms of exploitation. The lack of support would leave Windows 10 users vulnerable, as they would be unable to rely on Microsoft to address any emerging security threats.
Moreover, many businesses and educational institutions still rely on Windows 10 machines, especially in environments where budget constraints make it difficult to upgrade to the latest hardware. These users may be forced to choose between paying for a temporary security update or facing the consequences of running outdated software that could put their operations at risk.
As the deadline approaches, Microsoft may face increasing pressure from organizations like Consumer Reports, PIRG, and other consumer advocates to reconsider its stance. The public outcry over the proposed cutoff could lead to a change in Microsoft’s approach to Windows 10 support, particularly if the company faces significant backlash from the millions of users who depend on the operating system.
Do you think Microsoft should extend the deadline for Windows 10 security updates? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
