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UpdatesHigh priority

About 10 minutes to complete

Keep your phone's operating system up to date

Enable automatic updates on your iPhone or Android phone so that security patches are installed as soon as they are released. Outdated phone software is one of the most common ways attackers gain access to devices.

Why this matters

Phone operating system updates frequently contain security patches for vulnerabilities that attackers are already actively exploiting. Unlike a computer, your phone is always connected and always with you — making it a high-value target. Enabling automatic updates means you are protected as soon as a patch is available, with no action required from you.

How to do it

  1. On iPhone: go to Settings → General → Software Update → Automatic Updates. Turn on both 'Download iOS Updates' and 'Install iOS Updates.'
  2. On Android: go to Settings → System → System Update (the exact path varies by manufacturer — look for 'Software Update' or 'System Update'). Enable automatic updates if the option is available.
  3. Check for any pending updates now and install them before enabling automatic updates.
  4. Do not delay or dismiss update prompts — install updates as soon as they appear, ideally overnight when your phone is charging.
  5. Also update your apps regularly: on iPhone go to App Store → Account → Update All; on Android go to Play Store → Manage Apps & Device → Update All.

Need a more detailed walkthrough?

Our step-by-step guide explains each action in full detail, with confirmation steps and related tasks.

View full step-by-step guide →

Cyber Essentials framework

This task falls under the Updatescontrol, one of five areas assessed in the UK's Cyber Essentials scheme. Completing it counts toward your Cyber Essentials alignment. Create a free account to track your progress across all five areas.

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