AI & Cyber Threats: Update Devices for Security

The IRS and its Security Summit partners say artificial intelligence is creating heightened risks for taxpayers. Hackers are using powerful new AI tools to find vulnerabilities in smartphone and computer software. Here's the thing: keeping your devices updated is essential. Many successful attacks happen because software isn't current. Companies regularly release updates to counter hackers, and these updates significantly reduce the risk of a breach. For smartphones, both iPhone and Android users can set their devices to auto-update apps and systems. If an app isn't updating, you can delete and re-download it. Computers often update automatically when you shut them down, and major applications like word processors and email programs also need regular updates. Virus protection programs typically update every time you restart your computer. The bottom line: regularly updating all your software is a critical step in protecting yourself from cyber threats.