Cyber tip#3: Update your software

Would you leave your car unattended without locking it? In the same way, keeping the software on your electronic devices up-to-date is a simple step you can take to help protect yourself from fraud. 

Software updates not only keep your devices working smoothly, they also reduce the risk of cybercrime.

Cybercriminals often look for devices that are running old software because they may be more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. 

This is because older software may have known weaknesses that have been fixed in later versions.

A software update is a new, improved version of your device’s operating system or apps. 

When you install an updated version of your device’s operating system or one of the apps on it, this may:

• add new features, 
• improve performance, and
• fix known security weaknesses.

Essentially, you’re closing gaps that cybercriminals might use to get in.

It’s important to regularly update the software on all your devices – including your mobile phone, tablet and computer. 

Doing this makes it harder for attackers to access your personal information, steal your data or install malicious software, known as malware, on your devices. 

When software isn’t updated regularly, it may create an easy entry point for someone to gain access to your device. 

For example, in 2017 more than 230,000 Microsoft Windows users were affected by the global ‘WannaCry’ ransomware cyber incident¹. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim's files or locks them out of their device, requiring a ransom be paid to restore access.

The WannaCry incident occurred after Microsoft had already released a security update that addressed the weaknesses exploited in the cyber-attack.

It’s also worth updating software on your internet Wi-Fi router, or modem, or your television, if it’s connected to the internet, and any gaming consoles you may have, among other devices.

The easiest and most reliable way to update your device software is to turn on automatic updates. 

Automatic updates enable new versions of your software to be installed as soon as they’re available.

Not only does this mean you’re always using the most up-to-date, secure version of your software, but you don’t need to remember to install updates manually.

The Federal government’s Cybergov website provides more specific information on how to update devices that run Apple, Windows and Android software.

Cybercriminals sometimes use fake update messages or pop-ups to trick people into downloading malware. 

To stay safe, only update your device’s software from your device’s Settings menu. Don’t click on pop-up ads. 

Apply the usual cyber safety measures:

• Don’t click on messages with poor spelling, unusual wording or unexpected phone numbers – legitimate software updates will never ask you to call someone.
• Don’t click on unfamiliar links or download files from unknown websites. Real updates will come directly from Apple, Microsoft, Google or your device manufacturer.
• Never give personal or payment information for a software update. 

If you’re not sure if an update message is real, go to the official Settings menu on your device and manually search for updates.

If your device is no longer receiving security updates, it may be time to upgrade to a later model if you can. 

This is because over time, the device will become increasingly risky to use. 

The Cybergov website offers more information about how to tell if your device is no longer receiving security updates.

Starting the year with your devices fully updated is a simple step that can make a big difference in staying safe online. 

Turning on automatic updates today will help protect your personal information – and give you one less thing to think about all year!