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Microsoft warns: Windows XP registry hack may backfire
Users of computers running Microsoft's outdated Windows XP operating system were warned this week against a registry hack that supposedly allows them to continue getting security updates.
In a statement sent to tech site ZDNet, a Microsoft spokesperson said the security updates that the hack allows are for Windows Embedded and Windows Server 2003, and may not fully protect XP users.
"Windows XP customers also run a significant risk of functionality issues with their machines if they install these updates, as they are not tested against Windows XP," the spokesperson added.
Also, the spokesperson reiterated XP customers can best protect their systems by upgrading to Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.
The registry hack - assuming it does not render a PC unstable - supposedly tricks Windows Update into providing updates for for an XP machine by making Windows Update think the machine is running Windows Embedded POSReady 2009.
Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 will continue to receive updated until April 9, 2019.
Microsoft ended support for Windows XP last April 8, yet many continue to use XP - which at nearly 13 years old remains quite popular.
The end of support for XP means XP users can no longer receive security updates, and would be vulnerable to malware attacks.
However, some users can still get updates by paying Microsoft for patches and updates. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News
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