Update prompts arrive at the worst moments, and it is tempting to tap Remind me later. Government guidance on cyber.gov.au recommends keeping devices and software up to date.
What updates do
Updates are new, improved or fixed versions of software. They can add features, fix problems and address new security concerns.
Why they matter for security
cyber.gov.au explains that cyber criminals hack devices by using known weaknesses in systems and apps. Updates include security upgrades that fix those weaknesses. The longer you delay, the longer a known gap stays open.
Make it automatic
The simplest fix is to turn on automatic updates so they install without you needing to remember. Then:
restart your device when it asks, because many updates only finish after a restart
update apps as well as the operating system
remember devices you use less often, such as an old tablet or a home router
replace devices that no longer receive security updates.
cyber.gov.au has step-by-step guides for updating common devices and software. A few minutes now can save a great deal of trouble later.
Correction, 19 October 2026: We updated the government source link and removed an example that we could no longer verify against the available source.
About the author
RullikClear, sourced explainers on Australia and the world
Rullik is the pen name of the founder of Australia Illuminate (Auslume). Rullik writes plain-language explainers on life in Australia, from immigration, study and work to money, sport and screen culture, always linking to the official sources behind each story. Every story is reviewed before publication.
More from Rullik ↗This article was prepared with AI assistance.
