Software updates, why install them?

PROTECT YOURSELF

🔒Your devices have "open doors" you can't see

Every smartphone, computer or electronic device contains millions of lines of code. It is statistically impossible for them to be perfect: sooner or later someone discovers a bug that can be exploited to get into your device without you noticing. That is exactly what updates are for: fixing those holes before someone uses them.

😶‍🌫️What is a Zero-Day? The invisible enemy

When a researcher (or a hacker) discovers a vulnerability before the manufacturer is aware of it, that flaw is called a zero-day, literally "zero days' notice" to defend yourself. During those days (or weeks) the device is exposed and no protection exists yet. In 2021, a single zero-day vulnerability hit more than 250,000 servers around the world within a few hours.

☝️Hackers don't only target big companies

A common mistake is thinking "I'm not important enough to be attacked" or "I have nothing to hide". In reality, most attacks are automated: malicious programs scan the Internet looking for devices that haven't been updated, exactly like a thief trying every door handle on a street. An old device that hasn't been updated is simply a door that is easier to open.

🔥Updating is the simplest thing you can do

No technical skills are needed: just accept the update when your device offers it, and don't postpone it indefinitely. Manufacturers like Apple, Google and Microsoft release security patches regularly and often fix flaws that are already being actively exploited! Staying up to date is, today, the most effective and free security measure available to anyone.