One of the easiest ways to boost your cybersecurity is to keep your software and apps updated. Every day, developers are looking for clues that hackers are trying to break into their systems. They are searching for holes where cybercriminals could sneak in, even if they’ve never been breached before. They then release updates to fix these issues and keep the bad actors out. All you have to do is install the latest updates for your devices, software, and apps — including web browsers — to get the latest protections. Here are six easy-to-remember tips to keep in mind when it comes to updates.

1. Stay Lazy and Secure with Automatic Updates

If you click “Remind me later” when software update pop-ups appear, you’re not alone. According to a National Cybersecurity Alliance survey, almost 2 in 5 people admit that they “only sometimes,” “rarely,” or “never” install software updates. Don’t be that person! Updating software can be easy. You don’t have to check your Settings tab every morning – instead, set up automatic updates so that they are downloaded and installed as soon as they’re available. You might have to restart your device for the updates to fully install, but you can often schedule a restart to happen during times when you aren’t usually using your device, like the middle of the night.

2. Go Organic with Farm-Raised Updates Fresh From the Source 

Before downloading anything, especially software and app updates, be sure you know the source. Only download software to your computer from verified sources, and only download apps from your device’s official app store. The device, software, or app developer itself should be sending you updates, not anyone else. Remember that in addition to being illegal, pirated, hacked, or unlicensed software can often spread malware, viruses, or other cybersecurity nightmares. Ruining your device or compromising data security isn’t worth it! 

3. Don’t Fall for Phishy Fakes! 

On the web, you’ve probably come across suspicious pop-ups that urgently demand you download a software update or plug-in. These are especially common on shady websites or if there is malware already on your machine. These are usually fake – don’t click on these pop-ups. Many web browsers will warn you if you are attempting to visit an unsecure web address or one that could contain malware. Heed these warnings and don’t take the bait! 

4. Make It a Healthy Habit 

Updates are part of our digital life, and if you embrace them, you’ll have more peace of mind. Make updating your device, systems, and apps a regular habit. When you are notified that updates are available, install them right away. Even if it’s a pain to close your apps and restart your device, it’s worth it if the update patches an urgent security flaw. You should check your app and device settings on a regular basis. Create a repeating reminder (at least monthly, but weekly or biweekly is even better) to check for and install updates if you don’t have automatic updates turned on.

5. Update Everything

Many people associate updates with the software apps on their devices. But you need to keep all the systems and connected devices you use updated. Be sure to consider the following:

• Operating systems of your computer, phone, and tablet
• Steaming apps, such as Netflix, Apple TV, YouTube TV, or Disney+
• Web browsers
• Internet routers
• Antivirus software
• Smart TVs and connected devices, such as an Apple Watch, Fitbit, Ring doorbell, or e-reader
• Gaming devices, including PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, or Quest/Oculus

6. Enjoy the Bonus Benefits

Not getting hacked or transmitting malware to your friends, family, and connected devices or networks is a pretty solid motivation to keep your systems updated. But there are other benefits that are pretty good reasons to stay up to date.

• Play well with others:
  Updates help to ensure that your devices play well with newer systems, software, and peripherals/accessories. Stay on top of potential compatibility issues before they actually become a problem.
• Get the latest and greatest features:
  Beyond important security patches, most updates typically fix small stability issues and minor bugs. But every so often, they add new features or significantly improve existing ones. Don’t miss out on cool new enhancements. You deserve the best experience possible.
• Achieve peak performance:
  Out-of-date systems can’t always handle complex tasks, particularly when using features introduced after its initial release. Updates help your device run at peak efficiency by improving processing speed and reducing performance issues like lags and crashes. Updates are a quick fix that can improve your device’s lifespan, energy usage, and uptime.

Get the Updates for Peace of Mind

When you install the latest updates for your devices, software, and apps, not only are you getting the best security available, but you also ensure that you get access to the latest features and upgrades. But remember — you can only benefit if you update! So make it a cybersecurity habit that you’ll use from now on.

-- By Karen Beaudway, Pitt IT Blogger

Adapted from content found at https://staysafeonline.org/resources/software-updates.