Thing 5: Updates

You need to keep the operating system of your desktop computer or laptop updated. This can be done automatically on modern devices and you can still use them while updates download and install. However, you will often need to allow the device to restart at the end of this update process – either immediately or at a more convenient time you select.

Visit the Apple website for information about updating MacOS and the Microsoft website for help updating Windows 10.

If you have an older device, like one running Windows 7, you should upgrade it to Windows 10 or replace it a new device if it is too old to upgrade.

Smartphones and tablets have operating systems that need to be frequently updated just like a desktop computer or laptop. They will usually tell you when an update is available, but you need to make sure that auto updates are turned on and working.

Visit the Google support pages for information about updating Android devices and the Apple website for help updating IOS.

You might need to leave your device plugged and charging overnight for any updates to install. The update settings screen or update notification displayed on your device will tell you if you need to do this.

Modern web browsers can automatically check for updates and quickly install these whenever you open or close the browser. Make sure you have auto updates turned on in your web browser’s settings for this to work.

Using an out of date browser increases your risk from malware or data loss while browsing the web.

As well as keeping your device’s OS updated, it is important to make sure that you are using the latest version of any apps or software you run on it.

Using outdated or unnecessary software allows cyber criminals a route into your device, even if you have all other updates installed.

Modern smartphones and tablets can auto update apps for you and there will be options for this within their settings screens. For laptops/computers, you will need to keep a list of the software you have installed and regularly check the websites of the software developers for guidance about updates.

On occasion an automatic update might fail to download or install properly. You might not always be informed about this, so it is a good idea to check the update history of your device to make sure everything is working smoothly. Aim to do this at least once every three months for each of your devices.

Be suspicious of any update messages that appear within websites while you are browsing the internet. These fake messages are designed to trick you into installing malware or spyware. You may also receive fake update notifications by email.

Only install updates through the settings menus on your devices or web browsers unless you are confident a download is genuine. If updating an app or software or your computer/laptop, be careful to only download updates from the official website of the people who develop that software.