Keep Your Web Browser Updated

Here’s Why It Matters and How to Do It

February 04, 2025

Your Browser: The Shield Protecting Your Online World

Your web browser is more than just a tool to access the internet—it’s your first defence against online threats. Yet, many people underestimate the importance of keeping their browsers up to date. Here’s the truth: outdated browsers are a major cybersecurity risk, making you twice as likely to fall victim to data breaches or malware attacks.

Still unsure of what a web browser is? Learn more

What Happens When You Don’t Update?

Using an outdated browser exposes you to vulnerabilities that hackers actively exploit. Real-life examples, like the 2010 Internet Explorer breach, have shown how devastating these flaws can be. Modern browsers, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari, are built to counter these risks, but only if they’re up to date.

Browser Updates: What You Need to Know

Here’s how modern browsers handle updates and what you can do to stay secure:

  • Automatic Updates:

    Most browsers, including Chrome and Edge, update automatically by default, applying the latest security patches and features in the background. However, these updates often require a restart to take effect.

  • Manual Updates:

    If auto-updates are disabled, checking manually for updates regularly is critical. This is especially important for businesses where IT admins may control update policies.

  • Restore Your Tabs with Confidence:

    Concerned about losing tabs when you restart? Modern browsers make it easy to pick up where you left off:

    • Chrome/Edge/Firefox: Enable "restore tabs on startup" in settings.

    • Safari: Use the “Reopen All Windows from Last Session” option.

Risks of Skipping Updates

  • Higher Breach Risk: Outdated browsers double your likelihood of a breach, leaving you vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and data theft.

  • Missed Features: Updates often include tools that enhance productivity and user experience, like faster performance or better privacy controls.

  • Regulatory Non-Compliance – Many privacy laws, including Canada’s PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act), require businesses to take reasonable security measures to protect sensitive data. Running outdated software, including browsers, could put your business at risk of non-compliance, leading to fines or liability if a data breach occurs.

Quick Action Plan: Stay Secure in Minutes

Follow these steps to keep your browser secure and running smoothly:

  1. Check Your Browser Settings:

2. Enable Tab Restoration:

Turn on “restore previous session” in your browser’s settings to keep tabs open after a restart.

3. Restart Daily:

Updates often require a browser restart. Build this habit into your daily routine.

4. For Business Owners: Audit Legacy Systems

  • Identify tools or software that depend on older browsers or specific browser versions.

  • Determine if these systems are used for internet browsing. If they are, consider isolating them or limiting their online access.

  • Ensure your browser update policies don’t conflict with critical business tools, and work with your IT team to stay secure while keeping operations smooth.

5. Stay Informed:

Follow resources like the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security for alerts on emerging threats.

Share the Knowledge

Updating your browser is a small habit that can improve your online safety. Share this tip with your family, friends, or coworkers—it’s an easy win for everyone.

Take Action Now: Open your browser’s settings, check for updates, and enable auto-update if it’s not already on. Business owners, take a few extra minutes to understand your setup, especially if you rely on legacy systems, to ensure security and compatibility.

Cybersecurity starts with small steps. Make this one today!