Windows XP support ended at the beginning of April this year, however Microsoft have stated that users will still receive a security update in order to resolve a flaw in the Internet Explorer browser.
The update was issued on Thursday in order to fix a bug which gave hackers the opportunity to access and gain user rights to computers. Despite Microsoft ending support for the Windows XP operating system, meaning that it would no longer support the operating system, it made an exception due to the fact that the flaw was discovered just a few days after the end of support.
The flaw affected versions 6-11 of the IE browser and Microsoft was aware of “limited, targeted attacks” to exploit it.
According to NetMarket Share, Internet Explorer versions 6-11 combined total more than 50% of the global market of web browsers.
This flaw was quickly investigated by Microsoft who took immediate steps in order to prevent potential attacks affecting consumers. These steps included an immediate security update released on Thursday. Further to this, experts expect Microsoft to include regular updated security releases depending on the risks to and requirements of consumers.
Although a security update was offered to Windows XP users on this occasion, it is highly unlikely that any further support will be offered to users. It is important for all current Windows XP users to update the operating system of their device in order to lower the risk of any future IT security threats.
