Microsoft withdraws support for Windows XP starting April 8

Microsoft will end support services for its Windows XP operating system starting April 8.

Microsoft will no longer provide security, fix bugs or offer online technical assistance.

In Korea, individual and corporate users of Windows XP represent 15.46 percent of all computer users, according to data last month, down from 33.52 percent a year earlier.

But many bank ATMs and POS systems used at stores for payment and merchandise control use Windows XP.

“Once the service terminates, there is a higher chance of being exposed to security threats, like losing one’s personal information,” Microsoft Korea said. “The PC becomes vulnerable to viruses, spyware and malicious software programs and, therefore, data is likely to be stolen if the PC can’t be supported with crucial security updates.”