Updating at Home

Software updates…everybody’s favorite thing, right? Not really — in fact, when I went out on the web to look for something funny to say about software updating, I found quotes like “You resemble a software update. I spend my time trying to avoid you.” No one likes to wait for their system to update something. There are a million things we would rather be doing.

Unfortunately, this is more urgent than you think! While social engineering (e.g., phishing) accounts for the majority of cyber security breaches, many breaches happen because the attacker either exploits flaws in software or uses such an exploit in combination with social engineering. You can prevent this both at work and at home by keeping your software up to date!

Some of the benefits of updating software include

• Software bugs are fixed
• New features are added
• Compatibility fixes are added so that the software works with newer hardware
• Security gets updated; new exploits are discovered every day, and this is the ONLY way to keep ahead of them
• Updating your software helps protect other systems you are networked with; it helps prevent what is called “lateral movement” in a network so the attacker can’t hop from system to system

Some devices which can be updated that you might not think of include

• Computers — this one is what we all think of, but updating includes both the operating system and the software applications that run on your computer.
• Phones — your cell phone is always connected and is a great way for a hacker to get into your life. Keeping both the operating system and the apps updated makes this much harder for them.
• TV’s — not what you usually think of, but there have been cases of smart TVs being compromised. If the manufacturer offers an update or an app on the TV can be updated, do it!
• Tablets — these devices cross the boundaries between phones and computers. The good news is that you should treat them the same way you would treat either. Keep them updated.
• Security systems — if you have security cameras at your home, check the manufacturer’s web site for updates and instructions on how to apply them. You don’t really want anyone hacking your cameras…
• Automobiles — believe it or not, many cars have an updateable computer in them. Check with your dealer to see what options exist here. It might cost something, but the dealership should be able to update this device for you.
• Smart devices – we now have so many connected devices that the term “Internet of Things” was coined. Updates exist for many of these devices, but you will need to do a little research to determine if they exist and how to install them.

I know that’s a lot to think about, but set aside a little regular time to check on updating your stuff. You will be glad you did!