Determining the "most hacked" operating system (OS) depends on factors like market share, vulnerability exposure, targeting incentives, and available data. Based on current trends, historical patterns, and security reports up to December 2025, Microsoft Windows—particularly Windows 10 and 11—stands out as the most targeted and frequently compromised OS, especially for consumer and enterprise environments.
However, Linux and Android also face significant attacks, particularly in specific contexts like servers or mobile devices.
Why Windows Is the Most Hacked
- Market Dominance: Windows holds ~70-75% of desktop OS market share globally (per StatCounter, 2025). Its ubiquity across homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure (e.g., healthcare, banking) makes it the top target—more users mean more opportunities for attackers.
- Legacy Vulnerabilities: Windows 10, now past its end-of-support (October 14, 2025), is a prime target. New vulnerabilities go unpatched unless users pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU). Windows 11 also inherits some legacy code, exposing it to exploits like privilege escalation (e.g., CVE-2025-62215, actively exploited in 2025).
- Attack Vectors: Common entry points include:
- Phishing and Malware: Windows' permissive .exe execution and widespread use in enterprises make it vulnerable to ransomware (e.g., Qilin, RansomHub) and trojans.
- RDP Brute-Forcing: Remote Desktop Protocol attacks exploit weak credentials, a frequent issue in Windows environments.
- Driver Exploits: Kernel-mode driver flaws (e.g., CVE-2025-62221) enable escalation to SYSTEM privileges, used in ransomware campaigns.
- 2025 Evidence: Cybersecurity reports (e.g., Check Point, Cyble) note Windows as the primary target for ransomware, with ~50-52% of global incidents hitting Windows systems. Exploits like CVE-2025-59287 (Windows Server Update Services, CVSS 9.8) saw rapid weaponization.
Other Contenders
- Linux:
- Server Dominance: Linux powers ~80% of web servers and cloud infrastructure, making it a frequent target for server-side attacks. A 2004 mi2g report (re-referenced in 2025 by Network World) claimed Linux accounted for 65% of breaches in always-on systems, though this is outdated and debated.
- 2025 Context: Kernel vulnerabilities and misconfigured services (e.g., SSH brute-forcing) are exploited, especially in IoT and cloud. Groups like TeamTNT target Linux for cryptomining.
- Why Less "Hacked": Smaller desktop share (~2-3%) and diverse distros fragment attacks. Security-focused distros (e.g., Qubes, Kali) are rarely compromised.
- Android:
- Mobile Leader: With ~70% of mobile OS share, Android faces malware via rogue APKs, outdated patches, and rooted devices. Exploits like CVE-2025-5086 (DELMIA Apriso) hit industrial Android systems.
- Fragmentation Issue: Slow vendor updates leave devices vulnerable, but consumer impact is often limited to data theft or adware.
- macOS:
- Low attack volume due to ~15% market share and tighter app ecosystem. However, vulnerabilities exist (e.g., remote exploits), and Apple’s slower patching has been criticized.
- Specialized OSes: Systems like Qubes OS, Tails, or OpenBSD are rarely hacked due to niche use and robust security models (e.g., compartmentalization, minimal attack surface).
Why Windows Stays on Top
- Hacker Incentives: High user base, enterprise reliance, and resale value of stolen data (e.g., healthcare records) make Windows the most profitable target.
- User Behavior: Windows users are more likely to click unknown links or run untrusted .exe files compared to Linux/macOS users, who often have technical know-how.
- Enterprise Exposure: Windows dominates corporate networks, where a single breach (e.g., Active Directory) can cascade, unlike Linux’s decentralized setups.
Critical Perspective on Claims
- mi2g’s Linux Claim: The 2025 Network World reference to a 2004 study suggesting Linux as the "most breached" is misleading today. It focused on always-on servers, not desktops, and predates modern hardening. Windows’ broader exposure overshadows Linux in 2025 reports.
- Data Limitations: No definitive 2025 study crowns one OS as "most hacked" across all contexts. Metrics vary (e.g., breach frequency vs. severity), and many incidents go unreported.
How to Stay Safe on Windows
- Upgrade: Move to Windows 11 for ongoing patches (if hardware supports it).
- ESU for Windows 10: Enroll in Extended Security Updates (~$30/year) until 2026.
- Best Practices: Keep Defender enabled, update promptly, avoid pirated software, and use a standard user account.
- Alternatives: For high-risk tasks, consider Linux distros (e.g., Ubuntu, Mint) or air-gapped setups.
In conclusion, Windows (especially Windows 10 post-EOL) is the most hacked OS in 2025 due to its prevalence, legacy issues, and attacker focus. Linux and Android see significant server/mobile attacks but don’t match Windows’ broad exposure. Always prioritize updates and safe habits, regardless of OS!