Microsoft’s source code for Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 has leaked online. Torrent files for both operating systems’ source code have been published on various file sharing sites this week. It’s the first time source code for Windows XP has leaked publicly, although the leaked files claim this code has been shared privately for years.
The code includes multiple unreleased themes from XP’s early development, including a theme that conspicuously imitates parts of Apple’s Aqua design language from OS X (now macOS). This seems to have been a placeholder for developing the theme engine and clearly never shipped, but it does highlight the fierce rivalry between Apple and Microsoft at a time when the tech industry was still computer-centric.
The torrented files are also reportedly polluted with materials relating to widely-debunked Bill Gates conspiracy theories, but it’s unclear if those were tacked on by uploaders after the initial leak was shared to various torrents.
One version of the code leak also includes code for MS DOS, Windows CE, Windows Embedded and Windows NT, although those aren’t believed to be new leaks.
Windows XP’s refusal to die has caused a multitude of security problems; Microsoft stopped officially providing updates to the operating system in 2014, meaning any vulnerabilities largely don’t get fixed on the millions of computers that still run it. The situation managed to get even worse this week, as Windows XP source code leaked on the file-sharing site Mega, troll forum 4Chan, and beyond. By combing through source code, hackers can identify potential weak points, making it easier to craft malware that Microsoft likely won’t bother defending its zombie OS against. Some reports indicate that the source code has circulated privately for some time now, which may blunt the impact of this wider release. Still, it’s not an encouraging development for anyone who hasn’t updated their PC in half a decade.
