Why Managing Updates is Crucial for Cybersecurity

Unpatched vulnerabilities remain one of the top security threats for organizations, despite the rise of sophisticated cyber attacks.

According to DSIT, 22% of businesses and 14% of charities experienced cybercrime in the last 12 months, with actual numbers likely higher due to underreporting.

Key Statistics

• 60% of breaches are due to unpatched vulnerabilities
• 57% of breaches could be prevented with prompt patching
• One-third of ransomware attacks start with an unpatched vulnerability

Vulnerability Exploitation

Criminals often exploit newly released patches, with the NCSC noting that exploits appear on criminal forums within a week of patch release. This is why applying security updates within 14 days is crucial for Cyber Essentials certification.

High-Profile Examples

• An unnamed Russian-backed cyber criminal group, primarily penetrates systems through unpatched vulnerabilities.
• Romanian hackers took over Washington DC's CCTV systems due to unpatched computers.

Best Practices

1. Implement a robust patch management system covering all endpoints
2. Ensure your IT provider provides compliance reports and regular checks
3. Use effective Mobile Device Management systems
4. Don't delay rebooting devices to apply updates

Maintaining up-to-date systems is a critical component of cybersecurity, protecting against known vulnerabilities and reducing the risk of successful attacks.

If you need any assistance in checking if your systems are up-to-date, we offer Remote Media Management as part of our packages which includes Automatic Software Patch Management to keep your systems secure.