October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a perfect time to talk about the number one thing you can do for cyber security: keep your operating systems (OS) and applications updated. This simple task is essential to protecting both personal and organizational data, especially in Berkeley Lab’s open IT environment.
Recommended actions
Take a moment to ensure your devices are up to date by:
- Operating system is the latest version (Mac OS Sequoia 15.0 or Windows 11 24H2, etc.)
- Web browser is updated (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
- Phone is running the latest firmware/operating system (iOS 18.0, etc)
- Core applications are update (Zoom, Office, etc.)
- If you run a Linux server, update Apache, PHP, SSH, SSL, etc.
Keeping your OS and applications updated is one of the most effective and straightforward ways to avoid potential security breaches. By regularly updating and restarting your devices, you close potential entry points for cyberattacks, safeguarding both your information and your organization’s data. These small steps can make a big difference in maintaining a secure digital environment.
Why is this so important
Cyber attackers continuously search for vulnerabilities in software. In response, companies release updates to patch these weaknesses. Ignoring these updates leaves your devices vulnerable to attacks.
Here are two key reasons why updating is essential:
- Protection from Malware and Cyber Attacks Hackers: Updates often include critical security patches that close vulnerabilities cyber attackers use to access your system. If left unpatched, these flaws could allow attackers to install malware, steal data, or even take control of your device.
- Improved Functionality and Features: Updates also improve performance and introduce new features. Regularly updating your software ensures your devices run smoothly and reduces the risk of malfunctions or crashes.
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