End-of-support for Windows 10 opens revenue opportunities for channel

Nishchay Kandpal
Sr. Manager- Digital Adoption, 
Beyondsoft

Nishchay began by recounting a recent cyber fraud incident that targeted a major organization, illustrating the precision and sophistication of modern cybercriminals. In this case, the Chief Accountant Officer received an email instructing the transfer of USD25 million to a specific company. To validate the transaction, the chief accountant scheduled a video conference call involving the CEO, CTO, and CFO. During the discussion, every detail, including the purpose and specifics of the transfer, was meticulously covered. However, two weeks later, upon returning from an international summit, the CEO discovered discrepancies in the company’s funds and immediately questioned the finance team.

Upon investigation, it was revealed that the company in question had no traceable existence. More shockingly, when the recording of the call was reviewed, it was discovered that the CEO, CTO, and CFO present on the call were imposters. Only the Chief Accountant Officer was genuine. This incident underscores the alarming accuracy with which cybercriminals exploit technology, leveraging digital footprints easily accessible on the dark web to target individuals and businesses. Nishchay emphasized the critical importance of deploying robust cybersecurity measures in the digital age, where our digital identities are pervasive. “We often leak our identities and preferences—both knowingly and unknowingly—leaving us vulnerable to exploitation,” he said. He revealed that for less than USD1, sensitive personal data, including bank details, Aadhaar numbers, and even thumbprints, can be purchased on the dark web.

Cybercriminals have already harnessed technologies like AI clones to create deepfakes and perpetrate fraud. The emergence of such tools demonstrates the evolving threat landscape, where technology can be weaponized against its users. However, amidst these challenges, innovations like Microsoft’s CoPilot, an AI-driven productivity tool, signal a transformative shift. CoPilot integrates AI capabilities into PCs, enhancing productivity while delivering tangible business outcomes.

Nishchay also highlighted a significant development: starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end security and system updates for Windows 10 devices, urging businesses and individuals to migrate to Windows 11. Recognizing that businesses typically require over a year to strategize, procure, and deploy new technologies, he pointed out a critical opportunity for resellers and channel partners. This transition not only enables improved service delivery through advanced technologies but also presents substantial revenue-generation prospects for resellers.

He then reflected on the trajectory of artificial intelligence, noting that while the term was coined in 1969, its adoption gained significant momentum with the rise of generative AI (GenAI). Nishchay commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, referencing his recent keynote address, which emphasized on the increase in the cases of "Digital Arrest" and its relevance in an AI-driven era.

Concluding his remarks, Nishchay stated, “Technology drives innovation, but it also raises critical concerns around ethics, authenticity, and misuse. The need of the hour is to stay informed, adopt robust security measures, and harness technology responsibly to minimize risks and maximize its benefits.”