[ansel12]

If security is your main concern you should be running one of the third-party anti-virus programs. Also NoScript or similar free programs. You can tighten up that XP pretty well. Are you running a firewall program or hardware firewall device?If the hackers can’t get to your system then lack of new MS updates doesn’t matter.

I have so hardened my XP that I'm starting to wonder how it could be at risk.

I did complete XP reinstalls, and then all my Microsoft updates, EMET, free avast with online security, Comodo, Spyware blaster, Superantispyware, Malwarebytes and Glary Utilities for on demand scans, in Chrome and Firefox, I use Adblock plus, no-script, https everywhere, disconnect, WOT, Window name eraser, and I am probably going to install a free VPN.

I only intend to use it as a backup, but I do have the impression that I would still be pretty safe using it.

I have also tried to tweak the settings on everything, (cookies, search history, etc), do you have any advice or recommendations?

[hoosierham]

You have done everything I know to do.By disconnect I suppose you mean the computer is only online when you actually need to be online? They can’t hack what isn’t there.