Why you shouldn't skip software updates

Don’t skip updates: they help protect you from cyber threats

1 October 2025 | Scam Awareness

Keep your devices secure

October is Cybersecurity Month, a national initiative that encourages Australians to take simple actions to protect their personal information online. It is a good time to review your digital habits and make sure you are doing the basics well.

An effective way to stay safe online is to keep your devices up to date. Software updates help protect against known security threats and reduce the risk of cybercriminals gaining access to your personal data.

Why software updates matter

Software updates are not just about new features or performance improvements. They often include important security patches that fix vulnerabilities cybercriminals can exploit. Without these updates, your devices are more exposed to threats like malware, ransomware and data breaches.

Installing updates is like locking the doors to your digital life. It helps prevent unauthorised access and plays a role in keeping your information safe.

How to stay updated

Automatic updates

Turn on automatic updates on your devices and apps so you are notified when updates are available.

Prompt updates

Install updates promptly when you receive a notification.

Manual updates

Check for updates manually if automatic updates are not available, especially on older devices.

What should be regularly updated?

Trusted support services