Published date:
Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025
One of the simplest yet most powerful actions individuals and organisations can take is keeping software up to date. Installing updates promptly is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself online. Cyber criminals exploit flaws in outdated software every day, targeting both individuals and organisations. Luckily, you can reduce these risks dramatically with a few quick steps.
Why Updates Matter: Fixing the Flaws Criminals Exploit
When software is released; whether it’s your phone’s operating system, a desktop app, or a web browser it’s rarely perfect. Over time, developers discover, and fix weaknesses known as security vulnerabilities. These flaws, if left unpatched, can give attackers access to your personal data, financial information, or even control of your device. That is where software updates come in: they deliver security patches that fix these flaws before they can be exploited.
Even high-profile tech companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Google regularly issue emergency updates to respond to newly discovered vulnerabilities. If you're not installing them, you're leaving the door open to attackers who are actively scanning for outdated systems. Every day you delay an update, you increase your cyber risk, and updates are not just for adding new features; they’re crucial for closing security holes.
How to Stay Secure:
- Turn on automatic updates: Make life easier by enabling automatic updates on your devices and apps. Most systems allow this in settings and once switched on, your phone or computer will install important updates as soon as they are available.
- Act on prompts immediately: When you see a message telling you there’s an update available don’t ignore it. Update notifications are there for a reason. You don’t need to delay until the weekend or after your next meeting; updates typically take a few minutes.
- Use trusted sources: Only download software and updates from official app stores or manufacturers’ websites. Avoid third-party sites, which can host fake or malicious versions of apps disguised as updates.
- Update all your devices: It’s not just your phone or laptop. Think about all your connected devices: smart TVs, fitness trackers, routers, even baby monitors. If it’s connected to the internet, it needs regular updates to stay safe.
Top Tips for Organisations
For businesses and teams, software updates should be a core part of your cyber resilience plan:
Enable automatic updates on all company devices.
Create a clear patch management policy, so updates can be installed promptly and tracked.
Encourage staff to install personal device updates, especially if they use their own phones or laptops for work.
Replace unsupported software or hardware, as these can’t be patched and pose a major security risk.
5 quick steps to take in October:
Enable automatic updates on all your devices and apps.
Install updates as soon as prompted; do not delay!
Stick to trusted sources like official app stores.
Don’t forget non-obvious devices like smart home tech or routers.
If it is too old to update, it is time to replace it.
This Cyber Security Awareness Month, take a few minutes to run through these quick steps and encourage your colleagues and friends to do the same. These steps are fast, free and easy to help stay secure online.
Check out more - Install the latest software and app updates - NCSC.GOV.UK