Out of date applications, software, and operating systems are one of the most significant cyber security risks to your personal devices, with some of the most high-profile cyber-attacks being caused by out-of-date software.
Throughout the year, companies will frequently release updates or patches that add new features, resolve bugs, and fix security vulnerabilities. However, once vulnerabilities have been patched in an update, hackers will become aware of them and begin to use them in their cyber-attacks. Hackers will then begin to target their attacks at those who have not yet protected their devices with the latest updates, since these devices are far easier targets.
To protect your devices and personal data, you should ensure all your applications and software are always up to date. Automatic updates should be enabled whenever possible and, when updates are available, they should not be delayed or postponed. While sometimes updates can come at an inconvenient time, it is important that you install them as soon as possible to protect your devices.
More information about the importance of keeping devices up to date can be found on the NCSC website: Keeping devices and software up to date - NCSC.GOV.UK