I've disabled windows defender and gutted the OS of all it's features that I don't need for the past 26 years and never had any problems. I always resist the next update as long as I can get away with it (usually some software I need to use will only work on the next update)
It's probably really stupid but I've yet to suffer for it. I mainly use my PC for creative purposes, Steam, and Web browsing. If my identity is in danger someone must be putting it to good use.