Notifications about the need to update the device, particularly the software and operating system, come regularly. However, we often decline them due to a lack of time or being busy with daily tasks. In this regard, ESET specialists decided to explain why device updates are important for user security and what can happen if such notifications are ignored.
Why update devices?
Ensuring the latest version.
According to estimates, there were 230 billion app downloads in 2021 alone, which is 63% more than in 2016. At the same time, on average, a smartphone user has 40 separate applications. It should be noted that such data does not take into account other devices that most users use, particularly computers and laptops, as well as fitness trackers and other smart devices.
All these applications need updating, as do the operating system, the browser, and the built-in software on the device. Pop-up notifications about device and software updates can be annoying and hinder work, but their use is necessary for a number of important reasons.
1. Ensuring maximum protection.
Often, programs have vulnerabilities that, if not fixed in a timely manner, can be exploited by hackers in various attacks. In particular, such attacks can start with attempts to make users click on a malicious link, open an attached file in a message, or visit specially created dangerous websites.
As a result of such actions, cybercriminals can remotely launch malicious code on vulnerable systems or a dangerous program loaded onto the device, which can lead to the following consequences:
theft of personal data and confidential information for logging in, such as online banking;
encryption of all files using ransomware on your computer and demanding money for data decryption;
cryptojacking, during which a hacker uses your computer for illegal cryptocurrency mining, consuming large amounts of electricity and damaging your device;
a botnet that takes over the device and uses it to attack other users.
Device updates, including the operating system and software to the latest version, eliminate these issues by fixing the corresponding security vulnerability.
2. The security of your friends’ and family’s devices.
Any shared computers at home that are not updated can provide attackers with access not only to your accounts and confidential information but also to your family’s devices. Hackers can also access email, messengers, or social networks to send hidden malware to your contacts.
Therefore, timely updating of devices and software to the latest version will also ensure better cybersecurity for your family.
3. Higher device performance.
Software updates not only protect your device but also help resolve performance issues that developers may have identified. Thus, updating devices can help extend battery life, prevent app crashes, improve page loading speed, and add other features for better performance.
4. The introduction of the latest features is free.
Software developers also use updates to introduce new features for their users. In particular, the latest iOS update received a huge set of new features—from message editing and lock screen customization to Apple Pay improvements and even a security check feature to protect users.
5. Preventing problems at work.
Many companies during remote work insist on using corporate devices that have their own update mechanisms. Despite this, some employers allow staff to use personal devices to connect to corporate networks and access cloud-based business applications. However, if these devices are compromised due to a failed or untimely firmware update, problems may arise.
In particular, attackers can steal your corporate data to gain access to the company’s systems. There is also a risk of using the same access to infect the corporate network with malware. This can lead to a serious data security breach or a ransomware attack. The average cost of a data breach today is around $4.4 million per incident.
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