According to Windows Central, Microsoft ended Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, leaving approximately 400 million PCs without security updates. Desperate users are turning to third-party tools like Flyoobe to bypass Windows 11’s strict hardware requirements including TPM 2.0 chips and 4GB RAM minimums. Scammers have now created a fake version of the tool hosted on an official-looking domain that could potentially brick devices. The developer has issued warnings on Flyoobe’s official GitHub page urging users to only download from there. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program costs $30 or requires syncing to the cloud, except in the European Economic Area where it’s free.
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<h2 id="windows-10-holdouts”>The Windows 10 Exodus Problem
Here’s the thing – 400 million PCs suddenly becoming unsupported is absolutely massive. That’s like the entire population of the United States plus Canada still running outdated, vulnerable systems. And Microsoft’s solution? Basically “buy new hardware” or pay for extended security. No wonder people are getting creative with workarounds.
I think what’s really frustrating users is that many of these “obsolete” machines are actually perfectly capable computers. We’re talking about devices that might only be 5-6 years old suddenly being told they can’t run the latest OS. Is it any wonder people feel like this is planned obsolescence?
When Workarounds Become Dangerous
Now we’re seeing the predictable consequence of this situation. When millions of people feel backed into a corner, they’ll take risks. Tools like Flyoobe become incredibly appealing because they promise a way out without spending hundreds on new hardware.
But here’s where it gets scary. As Tom’s Hardware spotted, scammers have created a convincing fake version that could seriously damage your system. The developer’s GitHub warning is basically screaming “don’t download from anywhere but here!” And honestly, can you blame them? Their helpful tool is being used to trick people.
Microsoft’s Rock and Hard Place
Microsoft’s in a weird spot here. They’re pushing hard on Windows 11 with claims that it’s “2.3x faster” and all these AI features. But they’re also dealing with the reality that a huge chunk of their user base either can’t or won’t upgrade.
And then there’s the YouTube drama where videos showing how to install Windows 11 with local accounts got taken down. Was it Microsoft pressure or AI moderation gone wrong? Either way, it just adds to the feeling that users are being herded toward specific choices rather than having real options.
So What Should You Actually Do?
Look, if you’re one of those 400 million users, you’ve got some tough choices. The ESU program is basically a band-aid solution that groups like PIRG call a “last-minute snooze button.” Linux and ChromeOS are gaining traction precisely because they don’t have these hardware requirements.
But if you’re determined to stick with Windows and try tools like Flyoobe? Triple-check your sources. Only download from official pages. And understand that you’re basically entering uncharted territory where things can go very wrong very quickly. Sometimes the “free” solution ends up costing you way more in the long run.
