LS2EC
Software updates: a bulwark against cyberthreats during your travels
Going on the move is always a cybersecurity risk. Your mobile devices become more vulnerable when they connect to insecure public Wi-Fi networks. That’s why there’s one crucial step that travelers often neglect before hopping on their plane or into their car: updating their software.
Why patch?
Software developers are constantly working on the code of their programs to improve performance, but above all to correct any security flaws they discover. These loopholes, a kind of backdoor, can be exploited by hackers to infiltrate your systems.
Every time, it’s a race against time between security teams and cybercriminals. As soon as a breach is identified, a software patch is prepared as a matter of urgency to plug it. By regularly installing these updates, you reinforce the protection of your devices against viruses, ransomware, Trojans and other malware of all kinds.
This applies not only to updates for the major operating systems (Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS…), but also for the applications you use every day, such as web browsers, office suites, multimedia tools and your favorite mobile apps.
An operation to be carried out before each departure
For peace of mind, check and install the latest updates available on :
- Your smartphone and tablet
- Your laptop
- Your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari...)
- Your office software (Microsoft Office, LibreOffice...)
- Your multimedia applications (video player, VLC, iTunes...)
- Your banking, social networking, travel and other apps.
You can usually launch this operation very simply from the settings of your devices. If in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. It only takes a few minutes to secure your equipment before departure.
Get into the habit and you’ll be able to travel with peace of mind. Your personal and confidential data will be much better protected against computer attacks, wherever you are!
