In our increasingly interconnected world, where digital devices have become essential to daily life, cybersecurity has become a huge concern but is sometimes not recognised as a significant risk.

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, becoming more sophisticated and relentless each day. Keeping your devices up to date with the latest software is not just a best practice; it’s a critical line of defence.

All devices, whether desktop PCs, smartphones, tablets, or laptops—run extensive software for various uses, such as creating documents, design, filming and photography, social media, emails, and more. If these devices are not regularly updated, they become vulnerable to cyber attackers who can exploit outdated software to access unprotected security holes. This is where patching comes in, which involves updating software to close these gaps and limit vulnerabilities attackers can exploit.

How Cyber threats are evolving

Cyber criminals are relentless in their pursuit of exploiting vulnerabilities in software and hardware. They actively seek weaknesses to infiltrate systems, steal sensitive data, and cause havoc. As technology advances, so do the methods and tools at their disposal. Therefore, it is essential for individuals and organisations to remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity measures.

Software Updates: The First Line of Defence

Software updates, often referred to as patches, are a primary means of addressing vulnerabilities in operating systems, applications, and devices. These updates are released by software developers and manufacturers to fix bugs, enhance functionality, and, most importantly, patch security holes. Neglecting to install these updates can leave your devices and systems exposed to cyber-attacks.

Patching Vulnerabilities

One of the most common ways cyber criminals gain access to systems is by exploiting known vulnerabilities in outdated software. When a vulnerability is discovered, developers work diligently to create a patch that closes the security hole. However, for the patch to be effective, it must be installed on the affected systems. Failing to do so leaves your digital fortress with an open gate for cyber intruders.

Patches are crucial as they address known vulnerabilities that malicious actors can exploit to compromise your devices. The introduction of new security features makes it harder for attackers to successfully breach your devices. If attackers manage to compromise your devices, they could potentially steal data, encrypt your files, or render your device inoperative. While many devices and applications can install updates automatically, there may be times when they need some assistance from the user. Therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant and monitor updates to ensure they continue functioning smoothly.

Protection Against Malware

Malware, such as viruses, worms, and ransomware, continues to be a pervasive threat. Cyber criminals use vulnerabilities in software to deliver malicious payloads to unsuspecting users. Regular software updates include security enhancements that can identify and block these threats, keeping your data and privacy intact.

Safeguarding Personal Information

We store a wealth of personal and sensitive information on our devices, from financial data to personal photos. Keeping your software up to date ensures that your privacy is protected. Outdated software may lack the necessary security measures to keep your personal information safe from prying eyes.

Enhancing Device Performance

Besides the security benefits, software updates often bring performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Your device can run more efficiently and offer a better user experience with the latest software. It’s a win-win situation: better security and a smoother user experience.

Which Types of Software Should You Be Keeping Up to Date?

• Web Browsers and Extensions: Web browsers are particularly vulnerable due to their complexity. It’s crucial to keep them up to date, as the websites you visit could potentially exploit any flaws in outdated versions.
• Antivirus Software: If you use antivirus or endpoint security apps, regular updates are essential. These updates not only include bug fixes and new features but also incorporate new malware signatures to detect recently identified threats by antivirus companies. Keeping your antivirus up to date is vital for robust cybersecurity.
• Third-Party Apps: Ensure all apps you install are up to date. While some apps update automatically, others may require manual updates through your device’s app store. Don’t overlook this step to ensure the security and functionality of your applications.
• Operating System (OS): Most operating systems support automatic updates, which are typically enabled by default. However, it’s important to check that this feature is enabled, as it could have been turned off.

Best Practices for Keeping Devices Updated

• Enable Automatic Updates: Most operating systems and applications allow users to enable automatic updates. This ensures that you receive the latest patches and security updates without having to manually check. However, there are instances where automatic updates may not install for several reasons, such as:
  • Device isn’t connected to Wi-Fi
  • Device isn’t connected to a power source
  • Low battery charge
  • Automatic updates disabled in device settings
  • Insufficient device storage
  • Device needs restarting

It is worth considering these factors and checking regularly. Where automatic updates are not possible, ensure you manually install updates within the first few days of being notified about them.

• Regularly Check for Updates: Automatic updates may sometimes not be successful, so it’s good practice to check from time to time if an update is available. For devices or software that don’t support automatic updates, make it a habit to check for updates regularly.
• Check Device Support: Most devices, operating systems/servers, and apps will only be supported for a certain period before they reach an end-of-life stage, where they no longer receive updates and general support (e.g., Microsoft Server R2). It can be difficult to find out when this happens or sometimes can just be forgotten, but it’s extremely important to check that all important software or data on these older systems will still be supported by the developer. When possible, replace unsupported devices and software.
• Don’t Ignore Firmware Updates: In addition to software updates, firmware updates for devices like routers and smart home devices are critical for security. Keep them up to date as well and automate these if you can.
• Verify Updates: Be cautious of fake software updates delivered through phishing emails or malicious websites. Always verify the authenticity of an update before installing it.
• Backup Your Data: Before diving into software updates, it’s wise to safeguard your data by creating backups. This precaution ensures that your valuable information remains intact. Additionally, for those overseeing multiple devices, it’s a good idea to initially test updates on a smaller subset to verify the continued functionality of essential apps. However, don’t linger too long during the testing phase. Once updates become available, swift action is advisable, as cyber attackers can quickly identify and exploit vulnerabilities patched in the updates.

Recommendations for Organisations to Manage Updates

• Prioritise Automated Updates: The foremost step is to enforce the use of automatic updates through your organisation’s Mobile Device Management (MDM) service if possible. This ensures that devices and software stay current with the latest security patches and features. An MDM service integrates device applications, inherent device management functionalities, and infrastructure services. These elements collectively allow your organisation to remotely manage, monitor, and enforce policies on employee devices.
• Effective Monitoring: Continuously monitor the status of device and software updates using MDM logs or compliance policies. This real-time oversight allows you to identify and address potential vulnerabilities promptly.
• BYOD Policy Enhancements: If your organisation employs a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) approach, strengthen your security stance by restricting access to corporate data for devices that are not kept up to date. This precaution helps maintain a secure IT environment.
• User Education: Educate your users by providing clear guidance on how to ensure software updates are installed promptly and establish best practices. User awareness is a critical factor in maintaining the security of your IT ecosystem.
• Staged Update Deployment: Particularly in large organisations, adopting a staged approach to update management is vital. This method helps prevent disruptions that may occur during updates.
• Regular Review and Adaptation: Continuously assess your update management processes. Technology and threats evolve, so it’s important to adapt your strategies to stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities.
• Testing and Quality Assurance: Before deploying updates broadly, conduct thorough testing and quality assurance procedures. This minimises the risk of compatibility issues or software conflicts.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed documentation of your update procedures, timelines, and outcomes. This documentation serves as a valuable resource for troubleshooting and auditing.
• Vendor Communication: Establish open communication channels with software and hardware vendors. Stay informed about their update schedules and security advisories to act proactively.
• Employee Engagement: Encourage employees to report any anomalies or issues they encounter before or after updates. Promptly address and resolve these concerns to maintain productivity and security.

By implementing and continually refining these practices, your organisation can maintain a robust and secure IT environment.

Strengthening Your Digital Defence

Keeping your devices and software up to date is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to protect yourself against evolving cyber threats. By staying proactive and making software updates a priority, you’re not just enhancing your cybersecurity; you’re safeguarding your digital future. In the ever-evolving battle between cyber criminals and security experts, keeping your software up to date is a clear victory for your side.