The Hidden Risks of Skipping Software Updates

For one reason or another, ignoring software updates and patches has become the norm, and it seems to be universal. Initially, it may appear to be a harmless choice, especially since most software still functions if you ignore the updates, but as with most things, the truth is a bit more complicated than that.

What is a Software Update?

A software update is a newer version of an existing software program, which either replaces the older version or improves it. These updates typically include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features.

Software updates come in various forms:

• Patches
• Major Update
• Minor Update
• Service Pack
• Version-Release

Why are software updates important, you ask?  Regularly installing updates is essential for maintaining functionality, ensuring compatibility with other applications, and protecting against security vulnerabilities.  Staying up to date with updates provides a user with the best experience of an application, as intended by the developers.

Why Updates Must Not Be Neglected

The associated risk of using outdated software can often be catastrophic. For example, Discord, along with ten other major organizations across the globe, were involved in data breaches which resulted in a whopping 5 billion records breach, including private information of customers.

Utilization of outdated systems, especially legacy hardware and software, is one of the major reasons behind massive breaches. Other reasons why you should never ignore software updates include:

1. Security

Delaying or outright neglecting software updates for your program is a disaster waiting to happen. Updates address vulnerabilities and known security threats, which should be the primary reason why a user should regularly update their program.

2. Regulatory Compliance

Depending upon where an individual or organization is located within the country, specific regulations or compliance requirements might have them maintain updated software in order to protect any sensitive data from breaches, like customer information. Failing to do so can lead to heavy fines.

3. Increased IT Costs

Legacy and outdated software and systems often become more expensive to maintain in the long run than upgrading to newer versions.  The cost of dealing with system failures, repairs, requiring external help, and data breaches can end up costing an organization quite a hefty sum.

4. Performance Decline

As a program gets old and sluggish, there is bound to be a decline in its performance. This can result in compatibility issues with newer operating systems, crashes, bugs, or even complete failure of critical applications.  Along with security, updates also enhance the performance, compatibility, and efficiency of an application.

5. Future-Proofing

Technology is constantly evolving. Outdated programs quickly become a hassle to manage and support due to their incompatibility with new technologies.

The Real-Life Impact of Ignoring Software Updates

There have been many instances of breaches, data leaks, and malware attacks caused by outdated software. To better prepare ourselves, let’s take a look at one real-life case:

HealthEC Data Breach

In January 2024, a Population Health Management solution by the name of HealthEC had a data breach which resulted in sensitive data of patients and their healthcare provider clients being exposed to hackers. This included patients’ date of birth, age, name, address, billing and claims, and health insurance information. HealthEC reported the same to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights. This affected over  4.5 million individuals.

Conclusion

Using outdated software has major risks associated with it, significant enough to lead to severe consequences. Regular updates are not just necessary; consider them mandatory to maintain the security and integrity of systems. Taking a proactive approach to updates, either by manually checking for them or hiring a team to keep them up to date, is the best policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is outdated software?

Outdated software refers to a program that does not receive support or updates from its developers.

Q2. Why is outdated software a security risk?

Outdated software can leave your business vulnerable and exposed for hackers to exploit, which is a serious security risk.

Q3. How can I check if my software is outdated?

You can check if a program is outdated through its built-in update checker or by visiting the developer’s website.  Alternatively, SlickDigital can manage your organization’s system maintenance and updates. We ensure there are no compromises in terms of security or functionality and keep everything up to date.