Highlights
- CERT-In has issued a security alert regarding serious vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s software ecosystem.
- These vulnerabilities can allow attackers to steal data, run remote code, bypass security and crash systems, affecting Windows, Office, Azure, Developer Tools and more.
- Users should install the latest security patches, update Windows & Microsoft apps promptly and ensure antivirus & malware protection is up to date.
Caption – Indian government issues a security warning for Windows users. (Photo by Ed Hardie on Unsplash)
If you use a Windows laptop or desktop, this is something you need to pay attention to. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which works under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, has issued a security warning that could affect millions of users.
According to a report released on May 15, 2025, multiple serious vulnerabilities have been found in Microsoft’s software ecosystem. These flaws could let hackers steal data or crash your system. And it’s not just Windows users at risk, anyone using Microsoft services on other platforms like macOS or Android should also be careful.
Microsoft Services Affected
CERT-In says the vulnerabilities affect a wide range of Microsoft services including –
- Microsoft Windows
- Extended Security Updates (ESU) for older Microsoft products
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft Azure
- Microsoft Developer Tools
- Microsoft Apps
- Microsoft System Center
- Microsoft Dynamics
Who Is At Risk?
Both personal and enterprise users are vulnerable, along with IT admins and cybersecurity teams managing large networks.
Possible Threats
CERT-In warns that these vulnerabilities can be used by attackers to:
- Run code remotely
- Gain unauthorised access
- Steal sensitive data
- Bypass security protections
- Launch spoofing attacks
- Crash systems through denial-of-service (DoS) attacks
All of this can lead to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and system outages.
How to Protect Your Devices?
To stay safe, CERT-In recommends the following steps –
- Install the latest Microsoft security patches immediately
- Keep an eye out for new Windows updates and apply them as soon as they’re available
- Mac and Android users with Microsoft apps should also update their software
- IT teams and system admins should make sure antivirus and malware protection tools are fully up to date
Staying on top of these updates can help you avoid major security threats and keep your data safe.
FAQS
Q1. What security warning has the Indian government issued for Windows users?
Answer. CERT-In has issued a security alert regarding vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s software ecosystem, posing risks to Windows, macOS, and Android users.
Q2. What threats do these vulnerabilities pose to users?
Answer. Attackers can run code remotely, steal sensitive data, bypass security protections, launch spoofing attacks, and crash systems through denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
Q3. How can users protect their devices from these security threats?
Answer. Users should install the latest security patches, update Windows & Microsoft apps, and ensure antivirus & malware protection tools are fully up to date.
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