We do so much on our devices these days, from browsing the internet and shopping to banking, paying bills and more. Our devices contain so much information about us. And guess what: cybercriminals know that too, and they’re always looking for new ways to tap into that information. How do they do it? Besides trying to trick us with phishing attempts, they’ll exploit vulnerabilities in software and operating systems. What can you do to help stop them? Stay up-to-date with updates.
To understand why updates are so important, let’s think about how an update comes into existence. Either (1) the software company’s developers have proactively found weaknesses and created a fix; or (2) cybercriminals have found a vulnerability and have begun to exploit it, thus spurring the software company’s developers to create a fix. In either case, a weakness has been identified and a fix developed to repair it. The fix only works if you install the update.
Installing updates is one of the simplest ways to prevent someone from stealing your information. This would include your operating system, software and internet browser on every device you use. In many cases, you can enable automatic updates so your devices are constantly up-to-date. If you prefer to have more control, you can install them manually so they don’t happen at an inconvenient time (like in the middle of your Zoom interview!). Set a recurring reminder to check for updates, or do it before you go to bed.
What if updates are no longer available for your application software or operating system? In the tech world they call this “end of life”. If you continue to use a device running out-of-date software, it creates an easy way for cybercriminals to access information. That’s because no one is going to be working against them to stop them!
Everything is connected. Whether a vulnerability exists in a mobile device app or a computer operating system, it can give hackers an opportunity to plunder your sensitive data . Staying on top of security updates and patches across the board can help keep you secure.
