Since the dawn of the internet, one of the most basic and effective cybersecurity measures is keeping your software up-to-date.
In addition to better functionality, software updates often include cybersecurity fixes. These fixes can be critical. They may be patching a vulnerability already being exploited by bad actors. Your devices will remain vulnerable until the update is complete.
The good news is that, more and more, software updates automatically or can be set to do do.
Even when the update is automatic, you may get a notice to restart your device, a phone or computer, to complete the update. Do this as soon as possible since the protections won’t kick in until you restart.
Don’t forget to update the apps on your phone or tablet as well.
We all do a great deal of personal business on our phones, including financial, so keeping current is critical. While you're at it, delete any apps you no longer use. They can run in the background and collect information. So if you no longer need them, delete them.
Your web browser is one the most important pieces of software you use.
Most browsers--Chrome, Edge, Firefox--update automatically. However, you need to restart the program for the update to take effect. Given the way we use devices these days, some software is left open for a few days. So be sure to restart these programs from time-to-time.
Because the Safari browser can only be used on Apple products, it can only be updated on your phone or computer with the iOS or OS updates.
For Chrome users, you can see how long since an update has been available and you have not restarted:
- At the top right, look at MORE .
- If an update is pending, the icon will be colored:
- Green: An update was released less than 2 days ago.
- Orange: An update was released about 4 days ago.
- Red: An update was released at least a week ago.
You don’t want to be orange or red!
Learn more about browser updates and checking to be sure you have the latest version:
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