In the Minecraft Launcher, older Minecraft Java Edition versions (approximately 1.16.4–1.19.4) do not display any warning or notice that they are outdated or no longer receive security updates.
As a result, players may unknowingly continue using versions that lack important security fixes, which could expose them to known or unknown vulnerabilities, especially in multiplayer environments.
Expected behavior:
Outdated Java Edition versions should display a clear warning in the Launcher (for example: “This version is outdated and no longer receives security updates”) so users can make an informed decision.
Actual behavior:
The Launcher treats these older versions the same as newer or supported ones and does not inform users that they are obsolete or potentially insecure.
Steps to reproduce:
Open the official Minecraft Launcher
Select an older Minecraft Java Edition version (e.g. 1.16.4–1.19.4)
Observe that no outdated or security-related warning is shown
Environment
OS: Windows 11 25H2
Launcher: Official Minecraft Launcher
Account type: Microsoft account
Attachments
Comments 6
I am not suggesting that older versions should receive updates.
The issue is that the Launcher does not inform users that a selected version:
is no longer supported
does not include security fixes introduced in later releases
Security vulnerabilities are often discovered after release and patched only in newer versions.
Without a warning, less experienced players may unknowingly use versions that lack important security fixes, especially in multiplayer or modded environments.This is a user awareness / UX issue, not a request to update old versions.
This bug tracker is public, so you should expect comments from the public and from bug tracker staff like myself and tryashtar.
Which security vulnerabilities are present in these versions?
By definition no old version can receive updates, since an update is a new version.