Are You Leaving The Door Open For Hackers?

Wednesday, 22 December 2021 23:49

Software updates are an important part of staying secure online.

Why are software updates important?

Software updates are an important part of staying secure online. But why? You’ll often hear about the new features or performance improvements in a software update, but what isn’t talked about as often are the bug fixes and security improvements. Out-of-date software and apps contain weaknesses. This makes them easier to hack. Companies fix the weaknesses by releasing updates. When you update your devices and software, this helps to keep hackers out.

Why would cyber criminals target me?

Your device contains a lot of personal data that is highly valuable if it fell into the hands of a fraudster. The likelihood is your device will contain your full name, date of birth, address, bank details, passwords, as well as many other forms of personal data such as private photos or videos.

Improve your online security by using automatic software updates

We understand it can sometimes be annoying to remember to update your devices every time a new update is released, that’s why we encourage you to enable automatic updates wherever it’s available. That means you don’t have to manually install updates every time they’re released.

We’ve provided some useful links below where you can find step by step instructions on how to enable automatic updates for your devices and apps.

Apple - Mac (opens in a new tab)
Apple - iPhone and iPad (opens in a new tab)
[http://ms-settings:windowsupdate]Microsoft Windows 10 (opens your MS settings)
Windows 7 is no longer supported. You should upgrade to Windows 10
Android smartphones and tablets (opens in a new tab)
Android apps (opens in a new tab)

For more of the government’s latest advice on how to stay secure online, visit the Cyber Aware website:

www.cyberaware.gov.uk

Thanks for reading! If you found this information useful, please help us spread the word by forwarding this email to your friends.

Message Sent By:
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National).

More from Local News

Blues Match Report: Scarborough Athletic 1 - 0 Chester FC

Video

Scarborough Athletic claimed all three points in Bridlington, thanks to a close-range finish from Kieron Weledji.
Blues Match Preview: Scarborough Athletic v Chester FC

A clash with Scarborough Athletic beckons this afternoon for Chester FC at the Seadogs’ temporary home in Bridlington.
The Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner has saved ten PCSOs

The Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner has saved ten PCSOs from redundancy, following an announcement before Christmas that Cheshire Police had entered a consultation to reduce them by sixty.
Flintshire school praised by Estyn inspectors

A Flintshire primary school is celebrating after Estyn praised the school’s strong ethos, high expectations and nurturing learning environment.
Illegal vapes, tobacco and alcohol seized in trading standards operation

Illegal vapes and tobacco have been seized in a raid at a convenience store in Mold.
Man charged in relation to burglary in Chester

Officers investigating reports of a burglary in Chester have charged a man in connection with the incident.
Active travel and safety improvements coming to Ewloe roundabouts

Work to deliver active travel and safety improvements to two roundabouts in Ewloe are set to begin this month.
The Lord Mayor of Chester invites residents to Chester Town Hall for the Samaritans Brew

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sherin Akhtar is supporting the Samaritans Brew Monday initiative and is inviting residents to Chester Town Hall on Monday 19th January, from 1pm to 4pm, for a warm drink, friendly conversation, and an opportunity to explore one of the city’s most historic civic buildings.
‘GO ALL IN’ for the National Year of Reading

Libraries across the borough are asking everyone to get involved in the National Year of Reading 2026. Whatever you’re into, get ready to ‘GO ALL IN’
Aquanatal Classes Make Waves at Local Swim School

Local swim school Puddle Ducks Chester, Wirral & North Wales is celebrating the expansion of its services with the launch of aquanatal classes for expectant mums in the local area.
CFC Women's Team Mid-Season Review

Ahead of Chester FC Women’s first action of 2026, Kalvin Williams has offered a mid-season review on his side’s campaign to date.
Chester and Wirral Football League - Weekend Round Up

Here are the latest results from the Chester and Wirral Football League...
Chester Zoo hits new all-time visitor record in landmark year for conservation charity

Chester Zoo has set a new all-time visitor record – welcoming more than 2.1 million people through its gates in 2025.
Council’s gritting team is delivering maximum winter operation schedule

As Cheshire West and Chester experiences some of the coldest temperatures and most challenging weather conditions this winter, the Council’s Highways team is delivering at peak operating capacity to keep the road network running smoothly.
WILLY RUSSELL COMEDY SET TO BE STAGED AT CHESTER THEATRE

The curtain is set to rise at a Chester theatre on its first production of 2026, a comedy by the writer of smash hits Shirley Valentine, Educating Rita and Blood Brothers.
Blues Match Report: Chester FC 0 - 1 Worksop Town

Video

Worksop Town claimed all three points at the Deva Stadium this afternoon, courtesy of a close-range header from Aaron Martin inside the first-half.
Blues Match Preview: Chester FC v Worksop Town

Chester FC will look to follow up Tuesday’s home success over Macclesfield this afternoon as Worksop Town make the trip to the Deva Stadium.
Countess of Chester Hospital urges public vigilance and handwashing to help stop the spread of Norovirus

Norovirus cases are on the rise in our local community, and the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is urging everyone to play their part in keeping loved ones, vulnerable patients, and staff safe this winter.
Cheshire Firefighter Recognised in New Year's Honours

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has revealed that Group Manager Hannah Caulfield has been awarded the prestigious King’s Fire Service Medal, in recognition of her outstanding service and leadership.
Blues Match Report: Chester FC 2 - 0 Macclesfield FC

Video

Goals from Dylan Mottley-Henry and Tom Leak saw Chester FC end 2025 with success at the Deva Stadium over Macclesfield last night.

Are You Leaving The Door Open For Hackers?

More from Local News

Comments