The Risk of Outdated Software
Just four months into 2015 and it seems there's
been one security breach after another so far this year.
Whenever we hear about a data compromise or hackers taking
over a system, it's natural to ask, "Am I
vulnerable?" Fair question!
Another question coming to mind is: "Am
I doing everything I can to protect myself?" Another fair question - and
easier said than done, of course.
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to have the most
recent versions of software, browsers and operating systems installed on your
device.
That includes downloading available patches and updates as
soon as they are released; after all, many of them were created for the very
purpose of protecting you!
Here are some common items to check and look out
for:
Operating
Systems
1. Check and verify your Microsoft
or Apple desktop or laptop is configured to automatically install updates and
security patches.
2. Refer to instructions in your User Manual
for downloading and installing updates to your mobile device's
(phone/tablet/etc.) operating system.
3. Reminder: Microsoft ended support for its
XP system in 2014.
If you or anyone you know is still using Windows XP, we strongly
encourage you to visit the information page on Microsoft's
website.
Applications
1. Regularly (at
least weekly) check to see if updates are available for your browser or email
software.
In many cases there are options available to
automatically update these applications.
Check the in-application Help or the
software's website for instructions on setting this up.
2. Many software
packages; such as Adobe's Flash Player, have settings to check for updates &
security patches on a regular basis.
Instructions for these settings can be found
on the software's website.
3. With respect
to mobile "Apps", be sure to review Permissions requested by the application
before applying any updates.
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