IRS advises keeping software updated on all your devices.
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The Internal Revenue Service and its Security Summit partners recognize that there are heightened risks to taxpayers due to artificial intelligence (AI). Hackers now have powerful new tools that probe the software on your smartphone and computer to find vulnerable areas. It is essential for everyone to keep their devices updated; many successful attacks by hackers have occurred because individuals or companies did not have updated software.
Companies regularly publish updates to their operating software. Because this can contain millions of lines of code, it is important to continue to counter hackers by improving each software program. These regular updates substantially reduce the risk that hackers could invade and control your device.
There are two dominant operating systems for smartphones that offer regular updates to their software. Some require acceptance by the user; once notified, you should accept and install the update as soon as possible.
The average smartphone user has around 80 applications (apps) on their phone, many of which require regular updates. If you have an iPhone, there is both a manual and an automatic procedure for installing updates. For the manual option, select App Store and tap your profile icon in the top right corner. You can then choose to update each individual app or select Update All; this command may take an extended period to complete the updates.
Another option is to go to Settings, then click Apps and select App Store. From this screen, you may choose to automatically install updated software on the App Updates tab. This will enable most apps to be regularly updated on your iPhone.
Similarly, Android users can check for system updates through their Settings as well as set their preference for apps to auto-update.
If an app is not updating, you also have the option of deleting and downloading it again from the App Store. The newest release of the software may be easier to keep current.
Your computer runs an operating system. Many will automatically update when you turn off your computer, and this makes it easy to keep your software updated. Updates can occur almost every day.
You typically will also want to update major applications, including word processing, email or spreadsheet programs. A virus protection program generally updates each time you restart your computer. Most virus programs allow you to also scan your computer’s hard disk to determine if there are any offending files.
Another level of protection is updating your passwords. Many individuals use a password program to store them all; somewill require a new password every three to six months.
The American Legion’s Fund Development program is a way of establishing your legacy of support for the organization while providing for your current financial needs. Learn more about the process, and the variety of charitable programs you can benefit, at legion.org/plannedgiving. Clicking on “Learn more” will bring up an “E-newsletter” button, where you can sign up for regular information from Planned Giving.
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