Many PCs and laptops run outdated software. This is software that is so old that the vendor no longer releases updates. Did you know that outdated software makes your system insecure due to security leaks, among other things? Don’t take any risks, replace your outdated software and ensure good security.
Partner Article – In collaboration with Bitdefender
Recent research shows that nearly a quarter of Windows computers and laptops are running outdated software. These programs may contain security vulnerabilities and thus pose a risk. Security experts find new vulnerabilities in software every day. Security updates fix such leaks. If you do not install the updates, the vulnerabilities will remain on your computer and your system will be vulnerable. Over time, the manufacturer stops releasing updates. The software then becomes outdated and insecure.
Risks of outdated software
Malware takes advantage of the mentioned vulnerabilities and infects your system. Hence, outdated software increases the risk of infection and spyware. Ransomware infection encrypts files and makes your system unusable. Criminals promise that after paying the ransom you will receive a solution to decrypt files again. However, you never know if they will keep their promise or not, and it is not guaranteed that all files will be recovered.
Another type of malware infection puts your system in a botnet. This is a large group of infected computers that criminals use to carry out cyber attacks or send spam. The malware causes your system to execute commands from a central server. You hardly notice this until your system is misused for such an attack.
Criminals also use malware to steal sensitive data from your device, eavesdrop on passwords, or secretly record your camera or microphone. In short, all the things you don’t want to be a victim of!
On time replacement
Don’t take unnecessary risks, replace old systems and only run secure applications. If you’re using Windows, check if you’re running Windows 10 or Windows 11 and test if the update still works smoothly. Older versions of Windows, such as Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, no longer receive updates and are therefore insecure. If you have a Mac, click on the apple icon at the top left and request the details of your Mac. There you can immediately see which version of macOS you’re running. You’re in the right place with macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 13 Ventura, or macOS 14 Sonoma. macOS 11 Big Sur and earlier no longer receive updates, so in that case your Mac is outdated and insecure.
For Chromebooks, check the date of the last update. If it’s more than six months old, your Chromebook is outdated and should be replaced. It will no longer be supported.
If you use Office, also check the version you have installed. Microsoft does not release updates for older versions of Office, such as Microsoft Office 2007, 2010, and 2013. These versions of Office are no longer secure. Replace this with the current version. Also remove or replace older third-party software, such as Adobe Flash and older versions of Adobe Reader.
Phone and Tablet
Outdated software on your phone and tablet is a big risk. Unfortunately, manufacturers don’t always say they’ll stop updating. You’ll have to find out for yourself. Many Android phones that are more than three years old no longer receive updates. On Apple, this usually happens after five years. Tell your device to check for updates via the Settings menu and install them if necessary. Then check when the last update was. If it’s been more than a year, your phone or tablet is outdated and no longer secure.
When buying a new Android device, pay attention to the version. Currently, Android 14 is the current version. Updates to Android 12 and 13 are still being released, but not all manufacturers are distributing them to every device.
protection
Don’t give criminals a chance and secure your systems. Never postpone updates, install them immediately – also on your mobile devices. Use only official apps and install apps only from the Play Store or App Store.
Protect your system from malware with a good security suite. Bitdefender Premium Security It is a comprehensive and integrated package for all your devices, including your phone and tablet. It is easy to install and use and provides the best protection. In addition to anti-malware, anti-phishing, camera security and microphone monitoring, this package includes new features Advanced Email ProtectionBitdefender’s unique digital identity protection is included in this package, which warns you when your digital identity is exposed.
Never put passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive information in your notes app. Use a reliable password manager for this purpose. Bitdefender’s secure password manager works across all your devices and protects your data with the strongest encryption. This keeps your passwords, credit card details, and confidential notes really safe. You just need to remember the master password yourself.
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