Browsing the Net it is easy to find trial versions of the most famous operating systems, downloading them, however, means exposing yourself to several risks
When we hear about a Windows 10 update many look on the Internet, on sites or forums, for useful information where to download these operating systems without paying. However, using non-original operating platforms could be a wrong choice.
When we read on the Net about tests or free downloads of operating systems, even if they are famous like MacOS or Windows, we avoid downloading these files on our PC lightly. Often behind these non-original operating systems there are hackers who have hidden malware and viruses inside the pirated copies. In practice, cyber criminals encourage us to update or try a new operating system with the aim of tampering with our computer and stealing our most confidential information. There are basically three risks of installing an unofficial operating system.
Compromised Operating System
An operating system downloaded from unofficial sources, as already mentioned, might have been sabotaged by malicious people. There are several ways through which an OS can be stolen, tampered with, and then put back on the Net with the hope that people will download it. Some very skilled hackers may have stolen the operating platform directly from the company that makes the OS, or from affiliated companies. The purpose of these cyber criminals is not to do a public interest favor by disclosing for free a service that is otherwise often paid for. The purpose of hackers is to create zombie computers to feed a botnet, or to use our identity to engage in illegal activity on the Net, or to steal our bank account information. And often within the compromised OS there are backdoors that allow the hacker to take possession of our device at any time.
Malware infections
In addition to problems with the operating system itself there are a whole range of hacker attacks that hide behind false promises. For example, it is very common to find sites on the Internet that encourage the user to download a free version of MacOS or Windows 10, but in reality if we click on the download button we are not installing any operating platform but simply downloading malware to our PC.
Device Locked
Sometimes on the Net you can also find beta versions of the most popular operating systems. Often hackers steal these trial versions and spread them on the Net. In some cases there is no malware risk, but the danger for our devices is not less. Installing an OS that is not yet ready for public release can mean installing an operating platform that will create constant malfunctions and bugs. And the incompatibilities may be so obvious that our computer or phone may crash and stop working.