5 Common Security Risks When Using Outdated Software

Technology is constantly advancing. Software developers are constantly pushing out new updates, addressing old vulnerabilities to keep hackers out. Unfortunately, the techniques and tactics of cybercriminals advance just as fast. Because of this, using outdated software is a huge problem.

While using old software that hasn’t been updated in a while can seem harmless, especially if it still functions as intended, this view can be risky. Old software is often riddled with security weak points that hackers can exploit, and unfortunately, the hackers are often all too familiar with those vulnerabilities. So, when you use old software, you may leave your business at risk for various security problems, such as malware and ransomware attacks.

What is Outdated Software?

Outdated software is simply a program or system that is no longer current because it lacks the latest updates, features, or support from the developer. Sometimes, this is because the developer has discontinued the software, but in other cases, it might be due to user error (failing to update the system as needed).

These tools often fail to meet modern security standards, are incompatible with newer hardware or operating systems, and may not integrate with updated workflows or technology. Outdated software vulnerabilities place your business at risk, leaving weak points that hackers could exploit.

The 5 Risks of Using Outdated Software

Using outdated software can open your business up to multiple vulnerabilities. Weak points within the software can serve as a beacon for cybercriminals, who are often on the lookout for software that hasn’t been kept up to date. The most prevalent risks include:

1. Exploitable Security Vulnerabilities

An outdated system is often full of security vulnerabilities that hackers can relatively easily exploit. It can be like a door that has been left partially open, giving those with nefarious agendas easy access.

When software isn’t updated as it should be, it misses integral security patches that fix weaknesses identified in previous versions. Developers are constantly upgrading old software to address issues they’ve found, including security weak points. So, when you miss those upgrades and work with older software, hackers may leverage those unpatched flaws to carry out their ill intent.

2. Increased Risk of Ransomware and Malware Attacks

The exploitable security vulnerabilities associated with outdated software often go hand-in-hand with ransomware and malware attacks. Cybercriminals often target outdated software because it lacks the latest security defenses. If they know the weak points of the older software, they can exploit those to carry out their attack.

So, outdated software is often associated with increased chances of being hit by ransomware or other malware. The fallout can be devastating, potentially leaving your business without access to critical systems, corrupt files, or even major financial losses.

3. Higher Probability of Unauthorized Access

Outdated systems don’t have the same protections as modern ones do, plain and simple. These older systems often have loopholes that hackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to your data or escalate their privileges within your network.

These loopholes allow them to move freely through your system, access sensitive data, and even allow them to control critical processes without being detected.

4. Data Exfiltration and Leakage

Leaked data is one of the biggest concerns surrounding outdated software. The inadequate protections of these systems leave sensitive business data vulnerable to unauthorized access and exfiltration. Once hackers access your system, potentially sneaking in through an unnoticed loophole, they may access everything from proprietary information and client data to financial records and other confidential files.

With that information in hand, they can do whatever they want. They may leak the data as soon as they get it, but in other cases, they may hold it for ransom. It all depends on their goal and what they hope to gain, but for the business, it’s rarely good.

5. Reduced Detection and Response Ability

Old, outdated software often lacks the perks of modern security. Many older systems don’t offer the necessary protections, such as advanced threat detection or automated response capabilities.

Unfortunately, detecting breaches and responding to attacks quickly becomes nearly impossible without these tools. The breach may fly under the radar until it’s too late and the damage is done. With updated software, early detection could have prevented the problem from escalating.

The Snowball Effect of Outdated Software Security Problems

The security risks associated with outdated software only make up half the puzzle. The other half is full of problems resulting from those security issues, such as compliance issues, legal consequences, and even compromised client and partner trust.

Most businesses are expected to meet specific industry standards for data security, such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or GDPR. Failing to meet these standards or non-compliance can open the door to various unpleasant aftereffects, including fines, legal actions, and added scrutiny from regulatory bodies.

On top of those problems, a security breach due to outdated software can take a toll on your business’s relationships with clients and partners. If your systems are compromised, their data may also be at risk. This can cause the foundation of trust between your business and clients and partners to crumble, making them hesitant to trust and even work with your business in the future.

How to Fix Outdated Software

Outdated software is a big but fixable problem. Switching to new, more advanced software with modern protections is a huge step, but it’s a must, especially given the prevalence of security breaches in the business world.

Of course, since new updates are constantly being released to address previous weak points, upgrading your software isn’t a one-and-done project. It requires ongoing effort to ensure your software is secure and up-to-date. This often involves:

• Regular software audits: Routine audits of all software your business uses helps identify outdated programs, check compatibility with existing programs, and evaluate if any programs need immediate attention.
• Automated updates: Whenever possible, set critical software to update automatically. This way, you don’t have to remember to manually update the software when a newer, more secure version comes out. Many software providers offer automatic update settings, but this can vary from one provider to the next.
• End-of-Life software replacement: Sometimes, software will become obsolete. It won’t receive support or updates from its developers anymore, rendering it a significant security risk. When these programs become obsolete, it’s important to replace them with updated solutions that are actively supported and, ideally, ones with a proven record of timely security updates.

Partnering with a managed IT support provider, like Infiniwiz, can make the process much easier by taking the burden of software maintenance off your hands. Our team will monitor your systems, ensure all software is up-to-date, handle any patches as soon as they’re released, and complete similar tasks. This ensures a well-rounded and proactive defense against cybersecurity threats, saving you time, money, and energy by allowing you and your team to focus on core business operations.

Protect Your Business by Comprehensive IT Support From Infiniwiz

Staying on top of software updates and cybersecurity is no easy feat, especially when piled on top of your already long list of your business’s operational tasks. With other priorities vying for attention, it may be placed on a back burner, potentially leaving your business at risk. That’s where Infiniwiz comes in.

Infiniwiz offers comprehensive IT support that takes the burden of software updates and cybersecurity off your shoulders. Our dedicated experts provide the support your business needs to remain secure and efficient, leveraging their in-depth knowledge of the intricacies of system maintenance and cybersecurity to address your IT needs.

Choosing Infiniwiz as your managed IT provider means more than just preventing security risks—it means peace of mind. We handle the technical challenges so you can focus on your business and serve your customers without worrying about your systems' security, compliance, or performance.

Contact us today to learn more about our security services.