Patching is a critical step to ensure computers and networks are protected from being hacked. Hackers are always searching for vulnerabilities in software and applications, to gain unauthorized access to a system, steal sensitive data, or install malware. Successful patching updates your system’s software and applications with the latest security fixes for vulnerabilities the vendor is already aware of. The updates protect your system from known vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by hackers.
If systems are not patched, they remain vulnerable to known exploits with hackers using them to gain access to the system. By patching the system on a consistent regular basis, you can protect the system from known vulnerabilities such as unauthorized access to your system, stealing sensitive data, or installing malware.
Another reason patching is imperative is due to many of the security breaches being caused by unpatched software. Some of the most high-profile data breaches in recent years such as the LastPass breach have been caused by exploits of known vulnerabilities that could have been prevented by patching.
The password manager LastPass disclosed a major security breach occurring in 2022 that saw hackers steal customers’ encrypted password vaults, personal information, and installed malware. The hackers used information obtained from an earlier hack in August, in combination with access credentials installed on a LastPass employee’s computer to break in LastPass’ cloud-based storage and steal customer data. The reason for the security breach was due to the LastPass employee not installing a software update. Experts say if the software update was installed, the breach wouldn’t have happened or would have been delayed and caught before the vulnerability became exposed. This is a perfect example of how something as easy as a software update can change the course of an entire company’s security. Click here to read full article
Patching is an essential step in ensuring the security of your network and systems. It protects a system from known vulnerabilities and emerging threats and is a crucial part of any effective security strategy. By staying up to date with the latest security patches, you can help prevent hackers from gaining unauthorized access to the system and keep your critical systems and sensitive data safe.
