Chapter 5 – Keeping Software Up to Date¶

Many cyberattacks don’t require clever tricks or complex code. They exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software.

You don’t need to be hacked – just outdated

Attackers often scan for known flaws in unpatched systems and strike automatically.

This chapter shows you how updates protect you – and how to make staying current easy and nearly invisible.

5.1 Why Updates Are Critical¶

Software vendors regularly release updates that:

Fix security vulnerabilities
Patch bugs that could be exploited
Improve performance and stability

Delaying updates = leaving the door open

Many attacks use exploits that have already been fixed but not yet installed on your device.

5.2 Common Risks from Outdated Software¶

Unpatched operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS)
Browser vulnerabilities (e.g., Chrome, Firefox)
Outdated plugins (e.g., PDF readers, Java)
Unsupported devices (e.g., firewalls, old routers or smartphones)

Outdated software is like leaving your windows open in a storm.

5.3 How to Keep Your Devices Secure¶

Operating Systems¶

Enable automatic updates (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Restart regularly to apply updates

Browsers & Apps¶

Use browsers that auto-update (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
Update apps via App Store, Play Store, or package managers

Smartphones & Tablets¶

Avoid unsupported Android/iOS versions
Install system and app updates promptly
Be cautious with apps from outside official stores

Don’t snooze system update reminders

Those updates often include critical security patches.

5.4 What About "Legacy" Systems?¶

Some older systems can’t be updated. In these cases:

Isolate them from the internet
Restrict access to trusted users only
Monitor activity if possible
Plan to replace the system when feasible

Legacy doesn’t mean safe

Unsupported software is often a favorite entry point for attackers.

5.5 Self-Check: Are You Up to Date?¶

I have enabled automatic updates on my devices
I regularly check for app and browser updates
I avoid using end-of-life systems like Windows 7

Custom-tip

If you checked all the boxes – great! You're doing one of the simplest and most effective things to stay secure.
If not, take 10 minutes to run updates and tick those boxes now.