One of the most significant pillars of successful business operations is having a solid business continuity strategy. Companies need to know that no matter what obstacle may come, they have solutions on deck that will allow them to keep operations running.

There are many ways for continuity to be threatened; one of these that often runs under the radar is outdated software. Similar to having to close your browser tabs and restart your computer, updating your software is an annoying yet essential task that keeps your systems running smoothly. Without a regular update to your software, your company could be opening itself up to a bevy of potential issues that no one on your team may be thinking about. Here is just a sample of the problems that arise from using outdated software.

Your IoT Devices are Vulnerable to Hacking

Technology and our uses for it continue to evolve rapidly. Of the many innovations over the past ten years, IoT-enabled devices are among the more significant. IoT and intelligent tools used advanced communication between devices to so many facilities all around the globe and were very integral to the continuity of business during the pandemic. Unfortunately, these devices do have a downside, as they are susceptible to hacks. Cracks in the security of your IoT devices can lead to total breaches of your network and data. Even a tiny hack that doesn’t compromise your entire network can be devastating; for example, if your security cameras are integral to your visitor operations, a hack can cut out the most crucial component of your visual security strategy. Luckily, one of the most considerable safeguards for preventing an IoT device hack is the most simple: regular firmware updates. These updates close the door into devices and prevent opportunities for hacking. While some devices require manual and proactive actions to update them, most now include automatic updates as long as you have registered your device with the manufacturer. Firmware updates, along with a secure Wi-Fi network and regular security check-ups, are the most basic way to keep your IoT devices safe and secure.

Software Crashes Are More Likely

Picture this: your inventory team is in the middle of scanning, sorting, and stocking your warehouse with the massive haul of the day. They are swamped with pallets of materials and goods. Then, in an instant, your scanners go down, and your software is inoperable. You would be experiencing the terrible reality of many managers who use outdated package tracking software: a software crash. Depending on the size and scale of your on-site package operations, a crash in your system could result in lost inventory, misplaced goods, and a litany of other problems, all of which may not be recoverable. Even the endeavor to get your system back online is a loss for your company. That is lost time devoted to operations and other valuable efforts for your organization; this is why it is crucial to run an updated and robust inventory and package tracking software. Not only are you able to place and locate items efficiently and effectively, but you can rest assured knowing that your software can handle the vast amount of interactions it will take on each day. Regular updates are your best protection against buggy software or, even worse – a total crash.

Your Records Could Be Leaked

Businesses are a veritable treasure trove of information. The data held in a company’s record management software is extraordinarily important and needs to be protected. Without the proper safeguards, a company’s data could easily be leaked or held for ransom. Recently there have been advances in record management software, allowing for protection tools like file authorizations, access control lists, and advanced file encryption. Unfortunately, these tools may not be available to companies using outdated software; thus, their information is more vulnerable to attack than others. The easiest way to prevent data leaks is to ensure that your records are digitally housed on a regularly updated record management platform, one that offers as many advanced file protection tools as are needed.

What software security measures are your team taking? Let us know! Email us at [email protected]