I agree. Having used (and still using) XP, Windows 7 and Windows 8.1, I can understand the logic and agree that most users would be better served by switching to 8.1 from XP. On the other hand, Microsoft's interest in profit exceeds their interest in customer service by a wide margin. Thus the decision to discontinue supporting XP.
Windows XP is used by a lot of businesses who don't want the expense or trouble of upgrading to 8.1, or any other operating system. If the system can be made to be closed and connected to a local network only, then the risk of malware should be negligible. As for private users who connect to the internet, download and use multiple anti-virus programs, and a internet browser like DuckDuckGo or Firefox.
I should add that I've helped several friends who use Windows 7 get rid of malware, popups, and other unwanted garbage that Microsoft's software didn't prevent getting into their computers. So, even without Microsoft's involvement, using good after market anti-virus software should help.
