14.12.2024
Why Software Updates Are Important for Cybersecurity and How FastGuard VPN Helps
Ignoring software updates might seem harmless — but it puts your devices and personal data at serious risk. In this article, we explain why updates matter, what happens when you delay them, and how VPNs like FastGuard VPN can protect your data during the update process.
How Outdated Software Makes You a Target
Every software has bugs — some of them are security vulnerabilities.
When developers fix them, they release updates (patches).
If you don’t install updates, you leave known holes open for hackers to exploit.
Example:
In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware infected 200,000+ devices using a vulnerability that was already patched by Microsoft.
When developers fix them, they release updates (patches).
If you don’t install updates, you leave known holes open for hackers to exploit.
Example:
In 2017, the WannaCry ransomware infected 200,000+ devices using a vulnerability that was already patched by Microsoft.
Real Cyberattacks Caused by Missed Updates
1
WannaCry (2017)
Used the EternalBlue exploit, patched 2 months earlier.
Systems that updated — safe. Others — compromised.
Used the EternalBlue exploit, patched 2 months earlier.
Systems that updated — safe. Others — compromised.
2
Equifax Breach (2017)
147 million affected due to outdated Apache Struts software.
147 million affected due to outdated Apache Struts software.
3
SolarWinds Hack (2020)
Government and corporate systems breached due to unmonitored software vulnerabilities.
Government and corporate systems breached due to unmonitored software vulnerabilities.
How to Keep Your Software Up-to-Date
1
Turn on automatic updates
Most systems (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS) support auto-updates — enable them.
Most systems (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS) support auto-updates — enable them.
2
Use update managers
Track updates across multiple apps with centralized tools.
Track updates across multiple apps with centralized tools.
3
Check manually
Always verify security-related apps (VPNs, browsers, antivirus) are up to date.
Always verify security-related apps (VPNs, browsers, antivirus) are up to date.
4
Use a VPN when updating
Public Wi-Fi? Your traffic can be intercepted during updates.
Use FastGuard VPN to encrypt traffic and ensure safe data transmission.
Public Wi-Fi? Your traffic can be intercepted during updates.
Use FastGuard VPN to encrypt traffic and ensure safe data transmission.
- Encrypts your data stream during downloads
- Hides your IP address to reduce targeted attacks
- Secures the connection to update servers
- Blocks fake update servers and phishing attempts
Software updates = cybersecurity.
Skipping them leaves you exposed. Combined with FastGuard VPN, your system stays protected even during update sessions on public networks.
Don’t risk your privacy. Update often. Use VPN. Stay safe.
Skipping them leaves you exposed. Combined with FastGuard VPN, your system stays protected even during update sessions on public networks.
Don’t risk your privacy. Update often. Use VPN. Stay safe.
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