Turn On Automatic Updates on Your Phone
Most attacks use security holes that already have a fix. Automatic updates install those fixes for you, usually overnight. Here is where the switch is.
The tip
Switch on automatic updates once and your phone will install security fixes for you.
iPhone: open Settings, then General, then Software Update, then Automatic Updates, and turn on both downloading and installing.
Android: open Settings and search for Software update or System update. Menu names vary by manufacturer, but most phones have an option to download and install updates automatically.
Apps: turn on automatic updates in the App Store settings on iPhone, or in Google Play under your profile, Settings, Network preferences.
Why it matters
Most attacks on phones use security holes that the manufacturer has already fixed. The phones that get hurt are the ones that never installed the fix. Automatic updates close that gap without you having to remember.
One more check
Look up whether your phone still receives security updates. If it does not, it will stay vulnerable no matter what settings you choose, so keep sensitive tasks like banking on a supported device.
Frequently asked questions
Will automatic updates use my mobile data?
Phones normally download large system updates over Wi-Fi and install them while charging, often overnight.
What if my phone no longer gets updates?
Once a phone stops receiving security updates, newly discovered holes stay open. Avoid using it for banking and plan to replace it.
Do I also need to update apps?
Yes. Turn on automatic app updates in the App Store or Google Play settings as well.