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These days most people are aware that viruses, spyware, adware and other types of malware are lurking in the shadows of the Internet, just waiting for an opportunity to sneak onto their computers’ hard drives and perform all kinds of mischief.
What many folks don’t know however is just how easy it is for a computer or mobile device (and the sensitive data stored on it) to become compromised simply by using an out-of-date web browser that doesn’t have the latest security updates installed.
In addition to adding new features and options, browser updates also patch any security holes that have surfaced since the browser was last updated. And these security updates are released all the time.
If you’d like to keep your computer free of malware (and who doesn’t), it’s extremely important to do two things on a regular basis:
1 – Perform regular malware scans with high-quality security software. Click here for more info on that.
2 – Make sure your web browsers are always up-to-date with the latest versions.
Running the malware scans mentioned above can take some time and dedication, but keeping your browsers up-to-date only takes a few seconds. Here’s how to do it on a laptop or desktop computer:
Note: If you see a “Finish update” message in the top-right corner of the browser window just click on that and the pending update will be installed. If you don’t see that message just follow the steps below.
1 – Open your browser’s Options menu by clicking either the three horizontal lines or three dots in the top-right corner of the browser window. Whether you see the lines or the dots will depend on which browser you are using.
2 – Click on Help>About. Your browser will now check to see if there is an update available. If so, it will install it automatically.
If you’re using an Android device just open the Play Store app and search for your browser’s name. If an update is available it will tell you.
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad Safari will be updated automatically the next time you install an update to the operating system.
That’s all there is to it. Keeping your web browser up to date is very important for preventing malware and other types of malicious attacks from wreaking all kinds of havoc for your device (and you).
Bonus tip: This handy resource can help ensure your safety and security every time you are online. (#ad)