WINDOWS users should update to the latest version of the popular software as latest research shows that older software is more vulnerable.
Windows users have been hit by a recent attack
Earlier this month the world was hit by a deadly new cyber virus which infected millions of PCs and even brought the NHS to its knees.
WannaCry took over computers with malicious software which blocked access to systems and files until a ransom was paid.
Victims were warned that their files would be deleted within days if they did not pay up using Bitcoin, the world’s biggest virtual currency.
It was first thought that users with outdated versions of Windows XP were the worst for getting infected but new data has come to light which could disprove this.
Kaspersky has just released some new data which suggests that Windows 7 was hit hardest by the attack.
Windows 7 runs on around 45 per cent of all machines and is still hugely popular.
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Microsoft had released a patch for Windows 7 back in March but it seems many users hadn’t updated to the latest version.
The US technology giant also says that its latest Windows 10 software is the only OS completely safe from WannaCry.
This is backed up by Kaspersky whose chart shows a tiny amount of infections on Windows 10 - hese are due to manual infections carried out for testing.
So it seems if Microsoft users want the ultimate protection from viruses they are best installing Windows 10.
Microsoft is now warning every user to update to the latest version of the popular software.
A statement from Microsoft president and chief legal officer Brad Smith said: "As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, there is simply no way for customers to protect themselves against threats unless they update their systems."
How can you tell if a computer is infected?
The WannaCry, or Wanna Decryptor, ransomware works by encrypting files on computers, locking users out.
A message will appear onscreen with a ransom demand, countdown timer and bitcoin wallet to pay funds into.
What is the best way to protect your system?
The NCSC says the best way to protect your system is by using the latest software, which often includes solutions for known weaknesses, and run an up-to-date anti-virus programme.
Also backup any important data and ensure the latest WannaCry "patch" - which prevents the ransomware attacking - is installed.
For particularly vulnerable systems, they should be shut down as a final fail-safe way to stop the ransomware.
What is the best way to protect your system?
The NCSC says the best way to protect your system is by using the latest software, which often includes solutions for known weaknesses, and run an up-to-date anti-virus programme.
Also backup any important data and ensure the latest WannaCry "patch" - which prevents the ransomware attacking - is installed.
For particularly vulnerable systems, they should be shut down as a final fail-safe way to stop the ransomware.
What to do if your computer is infected?
The National Crime Agency (NCA) encourages victims not to pay any ransom and to contact Action Fraud.
Further information and support can be found on the NCSC website.
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