Numerous scams and fake software updates are focusing on the operating system due to the decreased protection offered by Microsoft. Social media, forums and video sharing sites have all had a surge in XP themed downloads and offers waiting to catch unprotected XP users. Many YouTube videos that profess to relate to Microsoft XP are pushing adware and viruses. This includes a malicious “Media Centre” that pushes other applications that damage the performance of the software. Users should be aware of the risks involved in keeping unsupported operating systems. Clicking on unknown links, even if they seem like XP setup files, is likely to cause many problems.
Despite the dangers a large percentage of XP users have not changed their systems, choosing to rely on outside antivirus software for protection. After 13 years with XP, a change in system is likely to be expensive and possibly require an entirely new machine.
