Don’t Click ‘Remind Me Later’: Why Software Updates Are Your Best Defense Online
Your Computer Is at Risk! The #1 Easiest Way to Protect It.
We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of working, streaming a movie, or browsing online, and a notification pops up: “An update is available.” What’s your first instinct? If you’re like most people, you probably click “Remind Me Later” without a second thought.
While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, that little update notification is one of the most important tools you have to protect your digital life. Ignoring it is like leaving your front door unlocked.
In our latest video, we break down why this simple habit is so crucial for your security. Watch it below, or read on for a detailed guide on why updates matter and how you can set them to happen automatically!
More Than Just New Features: The Security Risk of Outdated Software
It's a common misconception that software updates are only about adding new emojis or changing the look of an app. While new features are often included, the most critical part of an update is what’s happening under the hood.
Think of your software—your operating system, browser, and apps—like a house. Developers are human, and sometimes they build a window that doesn't lock properly or a door that has a weak hinge. In the digital world, these flaws are called vulnerabilities.
Hackers and malicious actors are constantly searching for these vulnerabilities to gain access to your system, steal your personal information, or install harmful malware.
This is where updates come in. When a developer discovers a vulnerability, they create a patch—a piece of code designed specifically to fix that security hole. When you install an update, you’re essentially having a digital handyman come over to repair those broken locks and secure your house. By not updating, you’re knowingly leaving your device exposed to known threats.
How to "Set It and Forget It" with Automatic Updates 🛡️
The best way to stay protected is to take the manual work out of it. By enabling automatic updates, you ensure your devices are patched against the latest threats without you having to lift a finger. Here’s how to do it on your devices.
On Windows (10 & 11)
Windows is designed to update automatically, but it's always a good idea to check your settings.
Click the Start Menu and go to Settings.
Select Update & Security (on Windows 10) or Windows Update from the left-hand menu (on Windows 11).
Here you can Check for updates manually. To ensure everything is running smoothly, click on Advanced options and make sure automatic updates haven't been paused.
On macOS
Apple makes it easy to keep both your system and your apps up-to-date.
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
Click General, then Software Update.
Next to Automatic updates, click the little info icon (ⓘ).
We highly recommend turning on "Check for updates," "Download new updates when available," and especially "Install Security Responses and system files."
On Your Smartphone (iOS & Android)
Our phones contain some of our most sensitive data, so keeping them updated is crucial.
For iPhone (iOS):
Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Tap Automatic Updates.
Make sure both Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates are turned on.
For Android:
System Updates: Go to Settings > System > System update. Your phone will check for and typically install major OS updates automatically.
App Updates (Critical!): Open the Google Play Store. Tap your profile icon > Settings > Network Preferences. Tap Auto-update apps and select "Over Wi-Fi only" to save your mobile data.
A Real-World Warning: The WannaCry Ransomware Attack
If you’re still not convinced, let’s look at what can happen when updates are ignored on a massive scale.
In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack spread across the globe, infecting over 230,000 computers in 150 countries. It paralyzed businesses, government agencies, and even hospitals, locking away their critical files and demanding a ransom.
The most shocking part? The vulnerability WannaCry used to spread was not a secret. Microsoft had released a security patch to fix it two months before the attack began. The organizations that were hit the hardest were simply the ones that hadn't applied this critical, readily available update. It was a devastating digital pandemic that could have been largely prevented.
Your 60-Second Security Checkup
Protecting yourself from many online threats doesn't require you to be a tech genius. It just requires good habits.
Updates patch critical security holes.
Automatic updates are your best friend.
Ignoring updates leaves you vulnerable to known attacks.
So, take 60 seconds right now to check your devices. Go through the steps above and make sure your automatic updates are enabled. It’s one of the simplest and most powerful things you can do for your online safety.
Were your automatic updates already on? Let us know in the comments below!