Mainstream software providers continually add security updates to their programs. While the practice is common and ensures that end users are protected from the latest threats and exploits, it highlights a scary truth: most computer software relied on every day by businesses and individuals isn’t secure. The fact that computer programmers constantly need to provide updates is yet another reminder of just how dangerous technology can be.
Unfortunately, it’s not just specialized software which requires security updates. Microsoft’s Windows operating system is infamous for having weekly, if not daily, security upgrades. Security vulnerabilities are just as common with computer programs like Firefox and Adobe. Organizations need to be aware of the risks created by technology and invest in additional computer protection solutions.
A Security Update’s Hidden Message
It’s not unusual to log into your computer and have a security update window pop up, prompting you to install the latest version of some software. These updates, which are created by software developers, patch any recent security holes that have been discovered and upgrade the the code to be more secure. At first glance, these events seem innocent- it makes sense for software to evolve in order to always beat new threats. However, the frequency of these updates reveals a scary truth- most computer applications can be exploited by hackers and aren’t as secure as you’d like them to be.
As anyone who uses Microsoft’s Windows OS can attest to, even well-protected and reputable technologies often have mandatory security updates. The sad reality is that, in many cases, the security patch is developed only after an exploit is discovered by a cyber intruder. For example, Google’s infamous security breach revealed fatal coding errors in Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser. In response, Microsoft rushed to release an emergency patch which fixed the problem.
Unfortunately, security patches are rarely a final solution. Software developers have to continually look for ways by which outsiders could manipulate their code to infiltrate a computer’s defenses. Sadly, in most cases, third parties end up finding the security flaws first. This is shown perfectly with Microsoft’s “quick fix” to solve the vulnerabilities in IE: a few days after the patch’s release, a security company claimed that the browser was still an easy target for hackers and full of possible exploits. Microsoft’s only response, a generic PR statement:
Microsoft is investigating a responsibly disclosed vulnerability in Internet Explorer. We’re currently unaware of any attacks trying to use the vulnerability or of customer impact, and believe customers are at reduced risk due to responsible disclosure. Once we’re done investigating, we will take appropriate action to help protect customers.
Additional Protection is Required
Organization that seek to protect their digital assets, which include proprietary information and customer data, can’t rely on the software they use to be impenetrable. The flow and amount of security updates show that companies need to invest in additional measures to protect their computers. Encryption software, such the Alertsec Xpress full disc encryption service we offer, adds that extra layer of security and helps defend your machine when the software you use fails.
Further Reading
Microsoft releases emergency Internet Explorer patch [The Telegraph]
Internet Explorer ‘hit with new set of security flaws’ [The Telegraph]
Image [Hall Media Blog]
