About 2.5 out of 10 computers on average are not installed with up-to-date Antivirus, making them vulnerable to virus infection, according to a new report from Microsoft.
Microsoft Security Intelligence Report volume 14 reveals that without an updated antivirus, computers are 5.5 times more vulnerable to malware.
Microsoft Trustworthy Computing director Tim Rains said surfing the Internet without up-to-date Antivirus is like leaving the front door open to criminals.
"With the release of this new research, Microsoft is urging people to make sure they have up-to-date Antivirus installed on their computers," Rains said.
Microsoft claimed to have detected and removed malicious email attachments from about three million computers during the fourth quarter of 2012 (4Q12).
During the quarter, Keygen was detected seven million times, which affected computers when people sought free or discounted software, movies or games online.
"Regardless of whether you use a free or paid-for solution, the importance of Antivirus cannot be overstated," Rains said.
"By taking the proper measures to protect your computer, including the most basic step of installing Antivirus, you can dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a victim."
