Steam has withdrawn support from Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 as of 1 January 2024. This news means that if you are using one of these operating systems, you will no longer receive updates for Steam and may be at risk for security issues.
Popular gaming platform Steam wants users to upgrade to a newer version of Windows, such as Windows 10 or 11, to keep their systems safe and up to date. Here’s all you need to know…
Why will Steam no longer support older versions of Windows?
Steam needed to make this change because the way they do business is changing, and older versions of Windows won’t work with their new way of managing business. They also want to ensure their users are safe from malicious people who might try to steal their information or break into their systems.
Using older versions of Steam can cause problems. Because older versions may be vulnerable to new security risks, malicious cyber attackers may try to steal users’ information. Steam is trying to make things more secure for users by requiring game developers to use special checks to ensure they are who they say they are before updating their games.
Steam is taking this step to improve security
Steam is taking this step to improve the security of its users. They warn users that using older versions of Steam can make their systems vulnerable to new vulnerabilities and the rise of malware that attempts to steal stored credentials.
Steam developers have been targeted by threat actors who steal credentials using malware to carry out supply chain attacks through malicious game updates. Valve is, therefore, tightening security on its platform by requiring SMS-based security checks from game developers who release updates to the default version branch on Steam.
However, SMS-based verification is insufficient to stop a determined threat actor who may attempt SIM-swapping attacks on a developer to gain access to their mobile phone number. For stronger protection, Valve should require developers to configure multi-factor authentication using security keys or authentication before releasing updates.
Steam attempts to protect its users from these security risks by not supporting older versions of Windows. They want their users to have the best and most secure experience possible. Therefore, if you are using an older version of Windows, consider upgrading to a newer version. It’s worth it to keep your system and information safe.
Also, did you know that the winners of Steam Awards 2023 have been announced? For detailed information, you can check out our related article.
Featured image credit: Barış Selman
