Online Safety and Privacy
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Min Read
Why You Should Update Software for Security and How to Do It
Keeping your software up to date is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself online.
Cybercriminals are always prowling for weaknesses in apps, operating systems, software, and devices. To strengthen their products, software developers regularly release updates to fix those vulnerabilities. Software updates also often improve performance and add new features. Most important for your safety, though, are these fixes, called security patches. However, they will only work if you install them.
If you ignore updates, you’re leaving the door open for criminals. Nowadays, hackers are even using AI to find and exploit software vulnerabilities. But by checking, downloading, and installing updates, you can significantly improve your cybersecurity and get back some peace of mind.
Don’t rely only on automatic updates
We recommend that you turn on automatic updates! They are helpful, but they’re not perfect.
Even with automatic updates turned on, some sort of action is often required by you, which might include:
Restarting your device
Approving installation
Freeing up storage space
If you don't pay any attention to your software updates, security patches can sit waiting to be installed.
What to do:
Check your update settings at least once every few weeks
Make sure automatic updates are turned on
Restart your devices weekly to complete pending updates
Don't think of automatic updates as guarantees. On many operating systems (like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android), you'll usually get a notification that an update is ready. But it doesn't hurt to check every few weeks, and you can check for updates for other apps and software, too!
Only download updates from legit sources
One of the most common cybersecurity risks is fake software updates. Scammers will often disguise malware as urgent update alerts to trick you into downloading harmful files. You can keep your defenses up by always being aware of what you download and where you download from:
Update through official app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store
Use the software’s official website
Avoid pop-ups, emails, or random download links
Always avoid pirated or unlicensed software. This is a tried-and-true way for hackers to infect your device. These often come bundled with malware that can compromise your data.
Watch out for fake update scams
Have you ever seen a pop-up warning that your system is “out of date” and needs immediate action? This is a classic online scam meant to make you "click before you think" by creating panic. If you see a suspicious update alert:
Don’t click anything in the pop-up
Close your browser immediately
Run updates directly through your device settings instead
Modern browsers often warn you about unsafe websites. Please pay attention to those alerts!
Make software updates a routine
An easier way to stay protected is to build updates into your routine. Many companies release updates on predictable schedules. For example, Microsoft releases monthly updates known as “Patch Tuesday.”
Check for updates weekly (that's best!) or monthly (at least)
Don’t ignore “Remind Me Later” notifications
Install updates as soon as possible – today, they typically take a few minutes
Even though installing the updates might slow you down for a few minutes, the peace of mind is worth the wait.
Replace unsupported devices
At some point, devices and software stop receiving updates. This is called “end of support” or “end of life.” When that happens, security vulnerabilities are no longer fixed, which makes your device increasingly risky to use. If you're running Windows 95 (for an extreme example), you aren't being protected with updates. If your device is no longer supported:
Upgrade to a newer, supported device or software version
If you keep the device, disconnect it from the internet and keep it that way
Definitely avoid using it for sensitive activities like banking or work
Stay updated, stay secure
Software updates fix security flaws, improve performance, and keep your devices running smoothly. Make updates a regular habit, and you significantly reduce your risk of being hacked. For more free cybersecurity tips, sign up for our free online newsletter!
Where to update your software
Update your devices and software with these direct links:
Operating Systems
Streaming Apps
Internet Routers
Antivirus Software
Smart TVs
Gaming Devices
Connected Devices
FAQs
Why are software updates important for cybersecurity?
Software updates fix security vulnerabilities that hackers actively exploit. Without updates, your device is more exposed to malware, ransomware, and other threats.
How often should I update my software?
Ideally, you should enable automatic updates and check manually once a week. At a minimum, review your updates monthly to ensure nothing is pending.
Is it safe to click update pop-ups?
Not always. Many pop-ups are scams, especially if they come up on random websites you visit. Only install updates through your device settings, official app stores, or trusted developer websites.
What happens if I don’t update my software?
If you skip updates, your device may become vulnerable to cyberattacks, experience bugs, and lose access to new features.
