STOP USING OUT-OF-DATE SOFTWARE

Replace old programs you didn’t realise were unsafe

Use these FREE ALTERNATIVES instead

Running old or rarely updated software puts your computer and personal data at risk. In theory, hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in any programs you use, letting them gain access to your files and take control of your PC.

Most software developers combat this by continuing to release updates that fix security flaws. But sometimes programs are neglected by their developers or even abandoned altogether. The software may have reached the end of its natural life or the company behind it may have gone bankrupt. Often the program-makers are just plain irresponsible.

Whatever the case, when programs are left without updates for years, they become unsafe to use - and that’s when you need to replace them. In this guide, we’re going to expose some of the worst culprits and explain why you need to stop using them. But don’t worry, we’ll also recommend the best safe, free alternatives.

We’ve selected the programs in this feature according to very specific criteria: they have had their support officially terminated or not been updated for over two years. We’ve also focused on popular software, because you’re more likely to be using it and therefore hackers have more incentive to exploit it.

You may also be using software you don’t need any more. We’ll explain how new Windows 10 features have made many tools unnecessary. Turn to page 58 for more on these.