Microsoft is no stranger to source code leaks and back in 2017 we also witnessed a source code leak for Windows 10. However, only a portion of the source code leaked in Windows 10. This time the complete source code leaked online for Windows XP, Windows Server 2001, and 2003. The verge state that they have confirmed that the source code is legitimate. The source code of Windows XP and others have been actively circulating privately for years as claimed by some people.
— DEY! (@RoninDey) September 24, 2020
This leaked source code first popped up on 4chan which is used as a forum for anonymous posting. You can classify this forum as a troll website however it is really popular. According to Microsoft, they are investigating the matter. Usually, Microsoft does provide controlled access to their source code to Governments and other organizations in the Government Security Program. The legitimacy of this leak might get confirmed by Microsoft later as they are investigating the matter.
How the leaked Source Code of Windows XP affects users.
Microsoft ended support for Windows XP back in 2014 what this meant was the security and stability updates were stopped for Windows XP. Although, Windows XP is an ancient OS for most users however there are still 1% PCs around the world that use this outdated OS. Usually, many OS or Software’s are open-source such as Linux, WordPress, etc. however Windows is a closed source OS.
If the leak is actually legitimate, anyone can use this source code to create their version Windows XP or it can prompt hackers to mess with the security features of the OS. Although, hackers don’t usually require the whole source code to mess with an OS. However, this gives them an easy road map to do so. So, we recommend updating as soon as possible if you are still using Windows XP. The source code leaks come as another embarrassment for Microsoft however hopefully with time these security breaches can be avoided.
If you are wondering what exactly is a source code an easy example is that it is a recipe for any software. If you have the recipe for something you can easily re-create it or add your twist to it. So this is why this leak is dangerous for the 1% of the population still using Windows XP. However, if you are still using Windows XP you should consider upgrading regardless. Because the security and essential updates for Windows XP have stopped in 2014. If you want a lightweight OS you can try different Linux distros or optimize the new Windows 10.
