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Why Software Updates Matter for Security

Understand why phones, computers, browsers, and apps need updates.

Quick Answer

Security updates fix known vulnerabilities as well as bugs; install supported updates from official sources.

Step by Step

  1. Use the official settings or website for the account, device, browser, or service involved.
  2. Security updates fix known vulnerabilities as well as bugs; install supported updates from official sources.
  3. Review security and recovery settings after making the change.
  4. Keep recovery information and backups somewhere you can access if the primary device is lost.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Never give an unsolicited caller or message sender your password, recovery code, or one-time verification code.
  • If money or a critical account is at risk, use a known official contact method rather than contact information supplied in the suspicious message.