When a pop-up appears saying “Update available”, it’s easy to click “Remind me later”. But for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), putting off software updates can expose your systems to serious cyber threats.

 

In this week’s article, we explain why keeping your software up to date isn’t just good practice – it’s essential for protecting your business, your clients, and your reputation.

 

 

Outdated Software Is a Cyber Criminal’s Dream

 

Software updates aren’t just about new features or interface tweaks. Most of the time, they include critical security patches – fixes for vulnerabilities that hackers actively scan for and exploit.

 

By delaying an update, you’re effectively leaving the door open for attackers to walk straight in.

 

Think of it like having a broken lock on your front door and choosing not to fix it – not because it’s difficult, but because it’s inconvenient. That’s the risk you take every time you postpone an update.

 

 

What Needs Updating? (Hint: It’s More Than You Think)

 

It’s not just your Windows or macOS system that needs attention. Here are some common areas that UK businesses often overlook:

• Web browsers – Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari
• Productivity tools – Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom
• Security software – Antivirus, endpoint protection
• Routers and networking equipment – firmware updates
• Printers and scanners – especially if connected to the network
• Third-party applications – anything your team uses day-to-day

 

Each of these tools can create a weak link in your defences if left unpatched.

 

 

 

Real Impact for Real Businesses

 

At Via Wire, we’ve worked with UK SMEs running end-of-life systems (like Windows 7) or using outdated scanning software still connected to their core network. These are easy targets for ransomware attacks, phishing campaigns, and data theft.

 

Even recent large-scale cyber incidents have been traced back to something as simple as a missed software patch.

 

 

 

What’s the Cost of Ignoring Updates?

 

Delaying updates could lead to:

 

🔓 Data breaches – Hackers exploit known software flaws to steal data

📉 Regulatory breaches – You could fall short of UK GDPR compliance

💸 Downtime and disruption – Emergency fixes cost more in the long run

🤦 Damage to your reputation – Explaining a breach to clients is never easy

 

According to the UK Government’s 2024 Cyber Security Breaches Survey, 50% of medium-sized businesses experienced a cyber breach in the past year – many due to poor patch management.

 

 

4 Ways to Stay on Top of Updates

 

To stay protected and productive:

1. Enable automatic updates wherever possible
2. Assign responsibility – have someone manage updates internally or outsource it
3. Replace unsupported software – don’t rely on tools that no longer receive security patches
4. Schedule regular IT checks – monthly patch reviews help avoid last-minute issues

 

 

 

Don’t Let an Unpatched System Be Your Weakest Link

 

If your business isn’t actively managing updates, it’s time to review your setup. At Via Wire, we help SMEs across the UK stay ahead of cyber risks by managing device and software updates as part of our fully managed IT service.

 

We’ll monitor, patch, and secure your systems – so you can focus on running your business.

 

 

🔎 Not sure if your systems are up to date? Let’s talk. We’ll take a look at your setup and advise on your next steps – no pressure, no jargon.

 

Book a discovery call with us – https://viawi.re/letschat