Snapchat’s latest update has left users angry over its confusing design, leading many to avoid updating the app. This, however, should not be avoided as it will leave you potentially exposed to being hacked, as security advocate Javvad Malik at AlienVault commented below.
Javvad Malik, Security Advocate at AlienVault:
“Keeping software patched and up to date is one of the key ways to stay protected against attackers exploiting vulnerabilities that could lead to personal information being compromised.
However, some patches and updates have unintended consequences. It is why in enterprises, immediate patching is not always as straightforward as it may seem. Whenever a new patch or update is released, enterprises need to verify the update is compatible within its environment and won’t break critical business functionality. If it is found that there are issues with the patch, a company may delay installing, or not install altogether. While this introduces a security risk, it is one that needs to be balanced against functionality and business continuity.
While the snapchat update didn’t have business implications, nor did it break functionality – the parallels are similar. The new UX is unappealing to many and as a result, users are avoiding installing the update. However, this could preclude those users from receiving future updates, that could include critical security patches designed to prevent hackers from gaining access to user accounts.”
