Hi everyone,
I’m facing a challenging situation at work and could use some advice. I work as an IT support specialist at a family-owned health business, and my boss has repeatedly refused to upgrade an outdated Windows 7 system despite significant security risks and operational issues. The system is no longer supported by Microsoft, is vulnerable to serious exploits, frequently crashes, and has outdated BIOS firmware.
I’ve asked my boss multiple times over the past two months to upgrade the system, but he has consistently refused, insisting that we have enough security measures in place. However, I’m not confident in these security measures, as the system is connected to the internet and it can literally be hacked by a exploit within the operating system, potentially bypassing all of our firewalls. (e.g. EternalBlue, BlueKeep)
I’ve prepared a new desktop with Windows 10 as a backup, ready to be deployed if the current system fails. I’ve also laid out a plan that would cause minimal disruption, allowing the employee who uses this system to temporarily use the software on his laptop while we make the switch. Despite this, my boss still refuses and has become visibly frustrated with my repeated requests. I’m worried about getting fired for taking the initiative to address this critical issue. The employee has been asking for a new system for the last 2 months.
The Windows 7 system connects to our main server to access a specific piece of software via the web browser. We host it locally, the software basically tracks all the equipment/infrastructure around the warehouse. It would be a straightforward replacement, but my boss’s resistance and erratic behavior make it difficult to move forward.
I’m considering talking directly to the owners about this issue, as my boss’s refusal puts our operations at risk, but I’m concerned about potential repercussions. I want to ensure I handle this professionally and protect myself from any blame if a security breach occurs.
Most of my requests have been verbal, and an email I sent to my boss about upgrading was never responded to. I’m looking for advice on whether I should discuss this with the owners directly, the potential risks and benefits of taking this step, and how I can best document my efforts to protect myself. I definitely feel like I’m going to be used as a scapegoat. I’m also planning on seeking employment elsewhere after I get my Network+. This is my first IT job, I’ve only been working here 3 months and I already want to leave.
I appreciate any advice or experiences you can share. Thank you!
Fellow IT guy here (welcome!). It’s like everyone else said: have some proof that your boss was informed of the situation. As someone who worked for a few years in IT: avoid verbal agreements; you won’t be able to prove they happened and they’ll make it your fault. As an example, I refuse to do any work that might have long-term consequences if I don’t have a ticket requesting as such or at the very least a mail in my mailbox. All agreements should be documented somewhere. Email is good, hard copies (paper) are even better.
Always, always, always document your requests. Bosses will not hesitate to throw you under the bus when something THEY fucked up goes wrong. Like southsamurai said: cover your ass, then follow orders. When shit inevitably hits the fan, you’ll have something to point to.