The Wiz Newsletter

By Tim Santo | The Computer Wizard

July 2026

Windows 10 is Getting Risky, Now is the Time to Upgrade

Running Windows 10 post-support leaves systems vulnerable to severe cybersecurity risks, as Microsoft no longer provides security patches for new flaws. This leaves your PC exposed to malware and ransomware. Additionally, third-party software and modern cloud services will drop support.

Key Security and Operational Risks

  • Unpatched System Vulnerabilities: Without regular updates, newly discovered exploits can go unaddressed, giving hackers easy access to your data.
  • Ransomware Exposure: Older systems lack hardware-enforced safeguards found in modern operating systems, making them highly susceptible to ransomware that encrypts personal or business files.
  • Software Incompatibility: Major applications—such as web browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox) and productivity suites (Microsoft 365)—will drop Windows 10 support over time. 

If you are still using Windows 10, now is the time to upgrade to Microsoft’s current operating system, Windows 11. I’m happy to help if you need it.

Scammers Are Everywhere: 10 Things to Keep You Safe.

Scammers never stop trying to get your personal information or access to your computer files. The Pew Research Center estimates that up to 73% of Americans have experienced some form of online scam or cyberattack. If you get an email asking you to do anything you’ve never been asked to do, chances are it’s a scam. Some things scammers ask for seem very suspicious, but others seem harmless. Here are 10 things you should never do to keep your data and privacy safe:

  1. Don’t call any phone number that pops up on your screen.
  2. Do not give anyone information that gets texted to you.
  3. Do not take cash to UPS or Western Union and send it.
  4. Do not get gift cards if asked.
  5. Do not give control of your computer to anyone.
  6. Do not use email to contact your bank; always call them.
  7. Do not use an email to get to any website that requires a log in.
  8. Do not click on an email thanking you for a purchase you did not make.
  9. Do not click on an email asking for updated information.
  10. Do not believe an email that appears to be from a friend asking for money.

To learn more, check out my current internet Scam Issue.

Stay safe and keep cool! If you have any questions or need help with purchasing a new computer or servicing your current one, please call me.

Tim Santo is a guest columnist for Marina Del Rey Focus.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tim Santos, author of the Wiz Newsletter profile picture

Tim Santo

THE COMPUTER WIZARD

Tim Santo has been working in the IT industry for over 35 years. He has managed a nationwide tech support center and was a tech advisor to senior executives for TechForce.

He created his company, Tim the Computer Wizard, in 2008, specializing in affordable in-home and in-office computer service and repair for all levels of computer users.

Tim can be reached at 727-366-5711.