This news means anyone still using the ageing software could be vulnerable to cyber criminals taking advantage of the lack of security updates and patches.

However, the US firm has now issued a new warning to all Windows fans who aren't using Internet Explorer.

PC owners who are browsing the web with Google's Chrome, Firefox or Opera are being urged to check which version of Internet Explorer is installed on their computers and upgrade to latest version even if it never gets used.

This is due to Microsoft's decision to tightly interlace Internet Explorer and the Windows operating system.

The warning was issued by Pat Altimore, a Microsoft senior software developer consultant.

Speaking on his blog he said: "There are many components that constitute the browser.

"Most of the components are part of the operating system including the javascript / HTML rendering engine, the Web Browser control, and the Windows Internet Protocol Handler.

"The browser application uses these OS components for script execution, rendering, HTTP requests, etc.

"When you upgrade the browser, you potentially upgrade all of these components."

If you're concerned about your browser you need to make sure you are running the latest IE 11 of Edge version of the Microsoft software.

A message posted on Microsoft's support page confirmed: "Beginning January 12, 2016, only the most current version of Internet Explorer available for a supported operating system will receive technical supports and security updates.

"Internet Explorer 11 is the last version of Internet Explorer, and will continue to receive security updates, compatibility fixes, and technical support on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10."

Users are also being advised to update the browser before deleting to make sure your PC has the latest security update.

According to Internet metrics vendor Net Applications, 47% of Windows users last month ran a browser that wasn't IE to reach the Web.

(dailystar.co.uk)