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    • Learn
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  • Home
  • Learn
    • Jargon Buster
    • Online Learning Hub
    • Order a S.A.F.E. Leaflet
    • Weekly Digest Emails
  • Support
    • Get Help After a Scam
    • Schedule A Call
    • Live Chat
  • About S.A.F.E.
    • About Us
    • How We Can Help
    • Make A Donation
    • Meet Our Founder
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Keeping Software & Devices Up To Date

In this section, you'll learn why keeping your software and devices updated is so important for your security. Software updates are released to fix problems, add new features, and, most importantly, close security gaps that hackers could use to access your personal information. If your computer, phone, or tablet is not up-to-date, it may be more vulnerable to cyber threats.


We’ll explain the importance of installing updates as soon as they become available, so you’re always protected with the latest security improvements. You’ll also learn the best ways to stay updated, as well as important information about what can happen if you don't stay up to date.


By the end of this page, you’ll understand how regular updates help keep your personal information and devices safe from hackers, malware, and other cyber threats. Keeping everything updated is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay secure online.

Illustration of a young man updating his laptop, with a smartphone nearby and a progress checkmark.
Illustration of an older woman looking concerned at her smartphone with a warning notification.

Why Are Updates So Important?

Updates are important not just to fix issues or make things look better, but they also play a key part in security and keeping you safe. In detail, updates should always be installed for the following reasons:



  • Better Security - Updates help protect your device by fixing problems that hackers could use to attack you.


  • Fixing Errors - Sometimes, your device or apps may have problems. Updates can fix these issues, helping everything run smoothly.


  • New Features - Updates can also add helpful new features, making your device easier to use and more secure.


  • Better Compatibility - Keeping things updated ensures that your device works well with other programs or devices you might use.


Young man on his laptop with various icons above related to staying up to date

How To Keep Your Devices & Software Updated

The best ways to ensure you are always up-to-date are listed below:


  • Turn on Automatic Updates - Most devices can update on their own if you turn on automatic updates. This way, you won’t have to worry about doing it manually.


  • Check for Updates Regularly - Even with automatic updates, it’s good to check your device for updates now and then, especially for important things like your internet browser or security software.


  • Update All Devices - Make sure all your devices are updated, including your phone, tablet, and any other devices you use.


  • Use Security Software - Having security software (like antivirus programs) and keeping it updated is a good way to protect yourself from viruses and other threats.


If you have a query about a specific device or software, please reach out to us and we'd be happy to help.

Illustration of an elderly man reacting to an "OUTDATED" alert on his laptop, with a sheild icon.

What Happens If You Don't Update?

Not updating your device or software can present various problems, some of which are as follows:


  • More Risk - If you don’t update, your device might have problems that hackers can use to get into your information.


  • Slow Devices - Without updates, your device might become slower or freeze more often.


  • Not Working Well - Old software might not work well with newer apps or devices, making things harder for you to use.



By keeping everything updated, you'll help protect your devices and data, keep the software & devices working as intended and make sure you're safe from any threats.

Updating Your Devices & Software - True or False

Click the sections to expand the answers

This is false. It's important to update regularly, even if your device is working fine, to stay protected.


This is true. Turning on automatic updates helps keep your device secure without you needing to do anything.


This is false. Not updating can make your device slower and more prone to errors.


This is false. It’s important to update all your apps and your device’s software to ensure complete security.


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