Unpatched computers are very cheap on the Chinese underground market

Oct 31, 2013 08:12 GMT  ·  By

Windows XP is slowly becoming hackers’ preferred target, especially because Microsoft will soon discontinue the operating system, but many people keep using it.

A report rolled out by security company Trend Micro today reveals that a vulnerable Windows XP system costs only 3 cents on the Chinese underground market, which makes it extremely affordable for those planning to spread malware or send spam.

What’s more, a computer with a webcam connected is sold for 6 cents, while a machine based in Japan or South Korea is a bit more expensive and costs 16 cents.

While this isn’t quite the best news for Windows XP users, Microsoft could actually be pleased, as this kind of reports could very well encourage consumers to make the move to a newer Windows version. XP will officially go dark on April 8, 2014, so everyone is strongly recommended to install Windows 7 or 8.1 as fast as possible.