There are consequences for staying with Windows XP after April 8

12:53 p.m., March 28, 2014--University of Delaware Information Technologies (IT) is sending email reminders to University employees using Windows XP systems about the security risks associated with XP computers after April 8.

As reported previously in UDaily, Microsoft says that after that date, "your XP computer[s] will no longer receive automatic updates."

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As a result, security vulnerabilities in Windows XP will no longer be patched. Even though some transitional anti-malware support will be offered through July 14, 2015, Microsoft indicates that XP systems and the information stored on them will be vulnerable to an increased risk of attack after April 8.

“Beginning this week, we are actively looking for Windows XP systems that people use to log in to password-protected portions of the University’s network,” said Karl Hassler, associate director for IT systems security, IT Network and Systems Services.

The email messages remind XP users of the increased risks associated with using Internet-connected Windows XP systems after April 8, and warn that infected or breached XP systems will be disconnected from the network to “protect the University's network, your own personal and private information, and other UD employees’ computers and information.”

The messages also include links to the IT webpage “Microsoft ending support for Windows XP,” and a summary of IT’s advice to those currently using Windows XP:

• replace or upgrade your XP computer;
• remove XP systems from the Internet; or
• put XP systems on a secured private network.

UD employees with questions should contact their department's IT professionals or contact the IT Support Center by submitting a Help Request Form, emailing consult@udel.edu, or calling 302-831-6000.