Keep Your Phone's Operating System Updated

The Problem

You dismiss update notifications because they're annoying. Your phone hasn't been updated in months.

The Hack

Enable automatic updates. iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. Android: Settings > System > Software Update > Auto.

Why It Works

Each update patches known security vulnerabilities. Hackers target unpatched devices because the vulnerabilities are publicly documented after the patch is released.

Pro Tips

• Enable automatic updates — they install overnight while charging
• Also update: apps, computer OS, and router firmware
• 'Update later' means 'stay vulnerable to known attacks'
• Updates also fix bugs and improve performance