Plymouth businesses warned to take action on Windows 7 ticking time bomb

Half of all businesses in Plymouth are still relying on old out-of-date software - that only has months left to live.

And it’s the town’s biggest business ticking time bomb, according to local IT expert Martin Limburn of Limbtec.

“Microsoft is ending the life of lots of software in January,” he explained.

“And any business round here that’s still relying on it by then is in huge danger of being hacked. We’re calling this the 2020 problem”

The software affected includes the popular Windows 7; Office 2010; and some well used server software.

When software reaches the end of life, that means Microsoft will no longer support it. And that makes it a huge target for hackers.

Martin said: “Many people believe that hackers have already found ways to exploit this out-of-date software. But they are waiting till next year to take action.

“That’s because their hacking is less likely to be undone. Giving them greater access to threaten ordinary businesses.”

He added. “The only way around this is to take action now and replace the out-of-date software.

“It’s why I’ve written a new educational guide. So Plymouth businesses can instantly see if they are affected, and what to do about it.”

Any local business owner or manager can get a free copy at www.limbtec.com/the-2020-timebomb

Limbtec was formed in year, and now looks after hundreds of local businesses in the Plymouth area.