Querido Optimista, pesimista y realista....
Mientras estabais ocupados discutiendo sobre el plato de comida.
Me lo comi !!
Saludos Cordiales,
El Oportunista.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Turning off data roaming mobile when travel abroad.
Switch off data roaming and iCloud mobile to avoid a Mass Mobile Bill before Travelling Abroad. The best way is unlocked your mobile before your travel or buy a cheaper unlocked mobile, then when arrived to your destination buy a local prepaid SIM Card with enough Data Mobile, like (150 Country Minutes, Unlimited Texts, 250 or 500 MB Data), and install in your smartphone just during your holidays. Do not forget to use Free Wi-Fi at your hotel and hotspots available at library, restaurants and pubs.
Use the internet connexion hotspots only when necessary and for a short time in public places, so you prevent hackers or crackers will not see your photos, contacts and private conversations on your mobile, and always disconnect the Wi-Fi public after use.
Recommended use with Intelligent Data Teams:
BlackBerry devices with version 10.0 operating system , iPhone and Android devices NOT compress data , so they may cause unexpected consumption on your bill . Devices with BlackBerry operating system to version 7.1 if you compress the data .There are apps that constantly generate data consumption as Twitter , Facebook, Messenger , Skype, applications and Weather Forecast Maps etc. . , As always keep the connection open and some are updated even when running in the background . Sign only when you will use and remember to close the session if you will be unavailable for a while.
There are applications that offer free content storage for your photos , music , videos and documents in general , such as Dropbox , iCloud, Google Drive, among others , which can generate consumption data to be used if you do not have a WiFi connection. We recommend you take precautions when deciding to use : Data benefit from free WiFi zones and make sure the connection is really this way , check the user manual of your computer/mobile.
If you have an Android device we recommend see " Google Play Store" different applications available through which you can control and monitor your data consumption , such as: "Traffic Monitor" and " Monitor Data Traffic " .
ARE YOU USING ROAMING?: prevents unexpected data consumption on your invoice:
• CONNECTED IN MOBILE DATA or DATA only when you require.
• NETWORKS BY USING Wi-Fi: make sure you have an effective connection, since all consumption outside of these networks is charged. Make sure that when you go to use Free Wi-Fi, first switched off your mobile data.
• Before traveling can DISABLE MOBILE DATA or DATA on the menu of your mobile device by following these steps:
Android: Settings / More Settings / Mobile Networks / data connection Disable / Uncheck Data Roaming.
iPhone: Settings / General / Network Before driving off "Data Roaming" option
BlackBerry operating system to version 7.1: Manage Connections / Mobile Network Options / Before driving off "Data Roaming" option
BlackBerry operating systems version 10.0: Settings / Network Connections / Mobile Network. Before driving off "Data Roaming Services" option
Use the internet connexion hotspots only when necessary and for a short time in public places, so you prevent hackers or crackers will not see your photos, contacts and private conversations on your mobile, and always disconnect the Wi-Fi public after use.
Recommended use with Intelligent Data Teams:
BlackBerry devices with version 10.0 operating system , iPhone and Android devices NOT compress data , so they may cause unexpected consumption on your bill . Devices with BlackBerry operating system to version 7.1 if you compress the data .There are apps that constantly generate data consumption as Twitter , Facebook, Messenger , Skype, applications and Weather Forecast Maps etc. . , As always keep the connection open and some are updated even when running in the background . Sign only when you will use and remember to close the session if you will be unavailable for a while.
There are applications that offer free content storage for your photos , music , videos and documents in general , such as Dropbox , iCloud, Google Drive, among others , which can generate consumption data to be used if you do not have a WiFi connection. We recommend you take precautions when deciding to use : Data benefit from free WiFi zones and make sure the connection is really this way , check the user manual of your computer/mobile.
If you have an Android device we recommend see " Google Play Store" different applications available through which you can control and monitor your data consumption , such as: "Traffic Monitor" and " Monitor Data Traffic " .
ARE YOU USING ROAMING?: prevents unexpected data consumption on your invoice:
• CONNECTED IN MOBILE DATA or DATA only when you require.
• NETWORKS BY USING Wi-Fi: make sure you have an effective connection, since all consumption outside of these networks is charged. Make sure that when you go to use Free Wi-Fi, first switched off your mobile data.
• Before traveling can DISABLE MOBILE DATA or DATA on the menu of your mobile device by following these steps:
Android: Settings / More Settings / Mobile Networks / data connection Disable / Uncheck Data Roaming.
iPhone: Settings / General / Network Before driving off "Data Roaming" option
BlackBerry operating system to version 7.1: Manage Connections / Mobile Network Options / Before driving off "Data Roaming" option
BlackBerry operating systems version 10.0: Settings / Network Connections / Mobile Network. Before driving off "Data Roaming Services" option
How can I avoid a large mobile phone bill when I travel overseas?
How can I avoid a large mobile phone bill when I travel overseas?
Updated 28/02/2014 11.21 AM
There are many ways to minimise the University costs caused by international mobile phone charges. The easiest way to avoid large international mobile phone bills is to limit the use of your mobile phone, but we understand this is not always practical or convenient. To minimise costs, ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) recommends the following tips and tricks:
- Buy a prepaid SIM card when you arrive at your destination and use this instead of your Australian SIM card. If you use a prepaid SIM card you will have a local phone number and will be charged at the local call rate instead of the international roaming rate (which is often very expensive!). If you choose to do this, you will need to contact the ICT Helpdesk to ensure your mobile phone is unlocked before you leave Australia.
- If you prefer to keep your Australian number while you are overseas then you will be charged at the international roaming rates to make and receive calls and to access the Internet on your phone. To minimise call charges contact the ICT Helpdesk to obtain an Optus Calling Card. You will still be charged if you receive calls or if you access the Internet on your mobile phone, but the cards allow you to make phone calls at a cheaper rate.
- Disable data roaming on your mobile phone, regardless of whether you are using an Australian or international prepaid SIM card. International data roaming can be expensive, so ICT recommends that you access the Internet via wireless hotspots in your hotel or in public places, or if you are visiting a university that participates in eduroam, you can use your UniKey to access their wireless network. Please follow this guide to disabling iCloud on your Apple device, and this guide to turning off Data Roaming on your iPhone.
- If you prefer to continue to make and receive calls on your phone and access all the services you are used to overseas, take a look at the new Optus Business AutoRoam offer that is available for University staff at a significant discount. With Optus AutoRoam, you can easily stay in touch in over 170 countries, while having call charges billed back to your Optus account in Australian dollars. For more information, visit What is Optus Business AutoRoam? or contact the ICT Helpdesk.
Does it cost money to unlock an iPhone?
No, Optus does not charge the University to unlock an iPhone.Can you monitor your cost as you go while you are travelling overseas?
No. The overseas network carrier will need to charge Optus at the end of your billing cycle, which is why there is often a delay before the international roaming charges are shown on your University mobile bill. See How much do International calls and data charges cost? for an idea on how much you will be charged whilst travelling overseas.Mumsnet tells users to reset ALL passwords as site hacked following HEARTBLEED virus.
Mumsnet tells users to reset ALL passwords as site hacked following HEARTBLEED virus
PARENTING website Mumsnet has reset all its members' passwords after hackers used the Heartbleed virus to access personal data.
Mumsnet has been hacked by the Heartbleed virus[MUMSNET/PA]The website has almost five million unique visitors every month.
The Heartbleed bug came to the public's attention last week, and millions of people are were urged to change all their online passwords amid fears the bug enabled hackers access to the most secure internet sites – including those used for banking.
The Mumsnet website post said: "We know this has been an enormous pain in the rear end for some of you, and we’re really sorry about that.
"We are aware that some reset emails aren’t turning up quickly enough.
"We believe it’s a problem with some email providers, who are struggling with the amount of automated mail that is being generated by lots of big sites requiring users to change passwords at this time.
"We’ve now made the reset links in the mails last for longer (48 hours) so that they don’t expire before you’ve seen them."
The post continued: "The bug allowed access to the information submitted via the login page.
"So that includes your username or email plus your password.
"It is possible that this information could then have been used to log in as you and give access to your posting history, your personal messages and your personal profile, although we should say that we have seen no evidence of anyone’s account being used for anything other than to flag up the security breach, thus far."
Monday, April 14, 2014
77% of CFOs prepared to explore bigdata & advanced analytics. 42% rely on 7 day old data.
Accenture
The role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) is shifting to that of technology evangelists—those who identify growth opportunities for the organization and oversee investment strategies to unlock new business value.
Today’s modern finance function doesn’t resemble the classic, old finance function. Empowered by data insights and collaborative new ways of working, modern finance organizations are no longer content to focus on containing costs and keeping score.
Empowering Modern Finance: The CFO as Technology Evangelist Learn more about the CFO as Technology Evangelist.
Explore the research findings and how the finance function can become a business partner and value creator for the organization.
http://www.oracle-downloads.com/modernfinance/
This research report, commissioned by Accenture and Oracle in collaboration with Longitude Research, confirms that finance organizations across the board are making clear progress toward adopting the following four tenets to develop new capabilities and transform the role of finance:
• Modern chief financial officers (CFOs) are technology evangelists recognizing the value of digital technologies and new cloud-delivery mechanisms for standardizing and integrating key processes, reducing cost of ownership, and improving finance productivity and decision making.
• Delivering actionable data insights and value to the rest of the business.
• Acting as a service-oriented, strategic partner to the business.
• Enabling maximum operational productivity and efficiency.
The role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) is shifting to that of technology evangelists—those who identify growth opportunities for the organization and oversee investment strategies to unlock new business value.
Today’s modern finance function doesn’t resemble the classic, old finance function. Empowered by data insights and collaborative new ways of working, modern finance organizations are no longer content to focus on containing costs and keeping score.
Empowering Modern Finance: The CFO as Technology Evangelist Learn more about the CFO as Technology Evangelist.
Explore the research findings and how the finance function can become a business partner and value creator for the organization.
http://www.oracle-downloads.com/modernfinance/
This research report, commissioned by Accenture and Oracle in collaboration with Longitude Research, confirms that finance organizations across the board are making clear progress toward adopting the following four tenets to develop new capabilities and transform the role of finance:
• Modern chief financial officers (CFOs) are technology evangelists recognizing the value of digital technologies and new cloud-delivery mechanisms for standardizing and integrating key processes, reducing cost of ownership, and improving finance productivity and decision making.
• Delivering actionable data insights and value to the rest of the business.
• Acting as a service-oriented, strategic partner to the business.
• Enabling maximum operational productivity and efficiency.
Tuesday, April 08, 2014
RedSMS - SMS Text Marketing
SMS Text Marketing
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Send personalised text messages to your customers and
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Whether you are sending thousands of personalised messages
or just one, our powerful web based bulk SMS service makes it easy. Want to schedule campaigns to go out at a specific time, no problem? See delivery reports, SMS replies and response phone calls from customers in real time, all from your own computer or tablet.
Did you know?
UK mobile users send and receive over 90 million SMS per day
SMS is the most responsive and efficient media channel
- Outstanding response rates - often into double digits!
- 97% of all texts received are being read within 4 minutes
- Messages from just 2.2p
- Real-time delivery reporting
- Instant access to your contacts from your computer
- Free reply messages back to your account
- Free customer support
- Free credits when you sign up
http://www.redsms.co.uk/site/
Apocalypse: Microsoft has stopped to give Windows XP support.
Estimates vary but it’s thought that as many as a third of the world’s computers are still running the operating system and Microsoft themselves have said that infections for XP will rise 67 per cent after 8 April, 2014. The question is, if you’re still running Windows XP: What do you do?
In the long term you only have two new steps: buy a new computer or upgrade to Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 or other Operating System. We will deal with these options in a minute, but if you are not ready to make a fast switch over then there is a couple of things you should do if you will still be on XP over the next couple of months.
First, make sure the software you have is as up to date as possible. That means grabbing any security fixes you may have missed from Microsoft’s website and making sure you have got some "best recommended" (non-Microsoft) antivirus software installed. (e.g. Bitdefender’s Total Security 2014, Bitdefender’s Antivirus Plus 2014, Symantec’s Norton 360 (2014), Kaspersky Internet Security 2014, Avast! Premier 2014, McAfee Antivirus Plus, Norton Antivirus, F-Secure Anti-virus)
You should also switch from Internet Explorer or Bing to a different browser such as Firefox or Google Chrome. Google will be supporting their browser on Windows XP computers until April 2015 while Mozilla haven’t announced an end-date to support for Firefox, but still give support. Of course, if you want to keep really safe then you would be best advised just to stay off the web altogether, though for many users this will not even be an option.
Other option is to switch from using an Administrator Account to a Limited Account for tasks like checking your email (where you might accidently download that pesky malware). This means that if a hacker or cracker does start riding along on your computer at least they will not have administrator-level access.
However, we have to say that these steps are just temporary measures and are not enough to protect you in the following months. One way or the other you need to upgrade to a better Operating System and maybe a better hardware o computer.
Whether you’re buying a new computer (think in this: Do I stick with a desktop PC? or switch to something more portable), or simply upgrade my operating system. You will have to choose between Windows 7 and Windows 8, or Ubuntu 12.10 or 13.04 or 13.10.
Related Links:
Windows XP support ends: Your guide to surviving the XPocalypse and upgrading to pastures new
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 (All day)
[ESSENCE - (08-04-2014)]
Windows XP diehards to fend off hackers on their own
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.
On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
People
clinging to Microsoft's aging Windows XP operating system will be left
to fend off cyber criminals by themselves come Tuesday.On April 8 (today), the US software colossus will stop patching newly found security holes in Windows XP code that hackers could exploit to slip into computers.
Despite Microsoft's long-heralded plan to stop "supporting" the nearly 13-year-old operating system, it still powers from 20 to 30 percent of Windows machines around the world, according to industry estimates.
"I am sure you have everything from police departments to banks to legal offices to restaurants," Trustwave director Christopher Pogue said while discussing the extent to which Windows XP is still used.
"Think of a business and they probably run XP; I would say everyone is in equal danger."
US-based Trustwave specializes in helping businesses fight cyber crime. Microsoft support entails regular security updates, but when it stops issuing patches to defend against freshly revealed hacker tactics aimed at XP, those using the operating system will need to enlist their own software wizards or live with mounting threats.
- Panic -
Hackers might already know of new ways to break into XP-powered computers but be waiting until after Tuesday to attack because Microsoft will no longer step in to thwart them, security experts say.
"You are talking literally millions of computers systems that will cease to receive regular security updates," Pogue said.
"That is obviously causing a panic because of new vulnerabilities that will be introduced."
Microsoft has released several generations of Windows since XP made its debut in 2001.
The most recent version is Windows 8, tailored for a world enamored of touch-screen computers and services hosted in the Internet "cloud."
Given the rapid evolution of computer hardware and the short lifespans of devices, newer computers bought by consumers are likely running newer versions of Windows.
Of concern, though, are small businesses that stuck with XP because they have grown accustomed to it and it gets the job done.
Sectors thought to be more prone to holding on to XP include those with relatively unsophisticated computing needs along with emerging markets or schools where money is tight.
Particular worry is being expressed for automated teller machines, many of which are reported to rely on Windows XP.
ATMs could become vulnerable to hacking, particularly independent machines in small shops or bars that aren't owned by banks which are more likely to invest in software security, according to Gartner analyst Michael Silver.
- Risky attitude -
"In a lot of cases, it is that Windows XP is good enough and people didn't see the business value to spending money to upgrade," Silver said of businesses hanging on to XP as new versions of Windows came and went.
"It is a risky attitude, given what issues they could have. These folks knew this was coming, too."
The pain of "migrating" to new operating systems includes making sure software programs depended on by businesses will continue to work. Computers running Windows XP cannot easily be upgraded to the newest Windows version, and that means the users would need to buy new machines.
While Microsoft stands to benefit through sales of new devices using Windows 8, organizations resigned to the aggravation of system changes could be open to considering what rivals such as Apple or Google have to offer.
"The risk for Microsoft is that people will migrate to somewhere else," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
"They should have never allowed it to get this bad."
The global estimate of the number of XP-powered computers may likely be skewed by the China market, where there is widespread use of pirated versions of the Microsoft software, according to a post by computer protection analyst Graham Cluley at WeLiveSecurity.com. Given that Windows software powers more than 90 percent of the world's computers, even a small percentage of machines running XP in any country could translate to high numbers.
Computers running XP will make the Internet a more dangerous place for everyone since hackers can launch cyber attacks from infected machines or valuable information about customers from businesses, Cluley argued. The good news, according to analysts, is that the latest version of Windows is far more capable and secure.
Yahoo News
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