The UAE Cybersecurity Council has warned residents to keep their digital devices up to date, stressing that smartphones, laptops, routers, and smart home systems are among the most vulnerable to cyberattacks, particularly when used on open networks.
According to officials, cybercriminals often target outdated systems, exploiting security gaps to launch malware attacks, steal sensitive information, or gain access to internal networks.
The Council urged residents to enable automatic updates across all devices to ensure continuous protection, describing regular patching as the “most effective digital shield” against evolving threats. It added that most cyberattacks exploit known vulnerabilities that could have been avoided if timely updates were applied.
Cybersecurity experts also recommend simple preventive steps such as:
- Enabling automatic updates for all devices and applications
- Checking update settings on routers, smart home devices, and web browsers
- Reviewing privacy settings regularly
- Monitoring unusual device behaviour that may signal an infection
The Council cautioned that neglecting these measures increases the risk of data theft and financial loss, while underscoring that staying updated is essential for both personal and organisational security in today’s digital-first world.
