On October 14, 2025, Microsoft is ending support for its Windows 10 operating system. Windows 10 isn’t going away completely, but after that date the OS will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes, and technical support will end.
If your PC or other Windows-based device currently runs Windows 10, you’ll want to update to Windows 11 sooner than later so you continue receiving Microsoft’s latest security updates and features. This ongoing level of security will help keep you safe from cyberattacks while you’re browsing the web or accessing your SELCO accounts in digital banking. To see if your device is eligible for an upgrade, visit Microsoft’s Upgrade Guide.
Here are a few ways Windows 11 helps protect you from evolving cyber threats:
- Stronger built-in security. Windows 11 requires a special chip (TPM 2.0) that protects sensitive information like passwords and encryption keys. TPM 2.0 helps block hackers from accessing your data—even if they break into your computer. Refer to the upgrade guide to see if your system is equipped with this chip so you can upgrade.
- Better protection against fake websites. Windows 11 is always on the lookout for fake sites that try to steal your login info. If you type your Windows password on a suspicious site, you’ll be warned right away, helping prevent identity theft and keeping your banking credentials under lock and key.
- Extra layers of defense against malware. Windows 11 uses a virtual “safe zone” to protect sensitive system processes. Only trusted software is allowed to run in critical areas, making it harder for viruses to sneak in.
- Secure sign-in with Windows Hello. Instead of using a password, you can log in with your face, fingerprint, or a PIN. These methods are tied to your device and never transmitted online, so they’re much harder to steal. “It’s like having two locks on your door,” said Mark Ellister, IT Security Systems Supervisor at SELCO.
- All-in-one security dashboard. The Windows Security app gives you one place to manage antivirus, firewall, and app protection, helping you quickly spot and stop threats.
- Zero Trust principles. SELCO’s digital banking is already equipped with end-to-end security. However, for an added layer of protection, Windows 11 assumes nothing is safe by default, checking every app, user, and device before allowing access.
“Keeping your PC updated with the latest security patches is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from being compromised,” Ellister said.
Should you still have Windows 10 running on any of your devices, it’s important to upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible. That way, you’ll have all the most up-to-date security in place and will continue to receive updates after Windows 10 support ends in October.
