8 Warning Signs that a Company Needs Cyber Security Updates

Summary: Security updates are essential to maintaining strong protection against hackers, malware and data breaches. Yet, too many small companies neglect updates until it’s too late. Learn to recognize when it's time for a security refresh, an essential part of good cyber hygiene that can save small and midsized businesses (SMBs) from financial and reputational damage. Here are eight signs that a system needs an update and how to respond.

1. Are Systems Slowing Down or Acting Strangely?

When computers or networks start slowing down, crashing or behaving in unusual ways, it could indicate more than a hardware issue; it might be a security red flag.

• Slow performance and unexplained lags can indicate the presence of malware or outdated software that's vulnerable to cyberattacks
• Longer program load times or frequent pop-ups could point to compromised software that needs updating

Keeping cyber security up to date helps ensure that systems remain optimized and safe. A sluggish network is a productivity killer and a symptom of deeper vulnerabilities.

2. Have Software Update Notifications Popped Up?

It’s easy to click “Remind me later” when update prompts appear, but doing so repeatedly is a risky habit. Updates often contain patches for known vulnerabilities.

• Skipping or delaying updates leaves the system exposed to security gaps that cybercriminals are already aware of
• Potential weak points hackers can exploit include operating systems, firewalls, antivirus tools and even browser extensions

Cyber risk management is a multi-layered function that starts with consistently installing updates as soon as they’re available. It’s one of the most basic, yet vital, good network security practices.

Q: What does unusual system behavior, like slow performance or frequent pop-ups, indicate?

A: These could be signs of malware or outdated software needing updates, critical for maintaining system performance and safety.

3. Are Employees Reporting Suspicious Email or Activity?

Phishing emails, unexpected login alerts and unfamiliar device access are all signs of a potential breach or the beginning stages of one. If employees notice and report suspicious behavior more frequently, it may be time to reassess the security setup. The causes could include outdated spam filters or firewalls that need updates.

The best cyber security for small business includes enabling users to spot threats early and arming systems to detect and block those threats effectively.

4. Has the Company Had a Recent Backup or Recovery Plan Test?

A critical element of cyber security best practices is ensuring that backup and recovery processes are up to date and functional. Here are a couple of key points to note:

• Backup systems that haven't been tested recently may not work when needed
• Outdated backup software may lack encryption or support for thwarting newer threats

Modern cyber threats, like ransomware, can cripple businesses in hours. Updating systems regularly ensures that data protection tools align with today’s threat landscape.

5. Has the Company Recently Experienced a Security Incident?

Any company that has suffered a breach or even a minor incident has proof that its defenses are insufficient

• Post-incident reviews often reveal gaps in patching, outdated security protocols or misconfigured settings
• A breach is a final warning — it’s time for immediate cyber security updates and a complete security audit

Even a minor incident shows that attackers found a way in. Don’t wait for the next, possibly bigger, threat before acting.

6. Is the Antivirus or Firewall Software Up to Date?

A small business’s cyber threat protection platform depends on timely updates. Security software is only effective when it’s current. Cybercriminals constantly develop new methods to bypass outdated tools.

• Many businesses rely on antivirus programs or firewalls that haven’t been updated in months or even years
• The practice is especially common in smaller companies that lack dedicated IT staff to monitor cyber security issues

Good network security practices dictate that all software, especially protective layers, should be monitored and updated regularly. Investing in the best cyber security for small business doesn’t mean spending a fortune; it means staying current and vigilant.

Q: Why is ignoring software update notifications risky?

A: Skipping updates exposes the system to known vulnerabilities, making it easier for cybercriminals to exploit outdated software.

7. Is the Company Still Using Legacy Systems or Unsupported Software?

Using old systems like Windows 7 or outdated web browsers may look and feel comfortable, but they’re often riddled with vulnerabilities.

• Vendors eventually stop supporting older software, which means they no longer issue patches or security updates
• Hackers actively seek out businesses still using these systems because they’re easy targets

To maintain proper cyber hygiene, upgrade to supported software versions. Not only will they provide better functionality, but they'll also close dangerous security loopholes.

8. Is the Company’s Security Policy Out of Date?

When was the last time management reviewed the company’s IT security policy or trained employees on cyber security hygiene?

• If policies haven’t been updated in over a year, they’re likely missing protocols for modern threats, like remote work risks or cloud security
• An outdated policy often leads to poor practices across the organization, including weak passwords, lack of two-factor authentication and unsecured personal devices on the network

Good network security practices include regular reviews and updates of security policy, employee training sessions and system-wide assessments.

Q: How can small businesses maintain good cyber hygiene?

A: By installing updates promptly, testing backup systems, reviewing security policies and training employees to recognize threats.

How to Stay Ahead: Implementing Strong Security Practices

Recognizing these warning signs is the first step. Here’s how to maintain the best cyber security for small business operations:

• Automate Updates — Wherever possible, enable automatic cyber security updates to ensure patches are applied without delay
• Schedule Regular Security Audits — Frequent assessments help uncover hidden vulnerabilities
• Train Employees on Cyber Hygiene — Educate team members on phishing, strong password practices and remote-work protocols
• Invest in the Right Tools — From endpoint protection to secure cloud services, use modern, supported tools tailored to the company’s size and needs
• Backup Everything — Ensure backup systems are encrypted, frequently refreshed and stored offsite or in the cloud

SMBs that don’t have the time or expertise to perform these practices should consider hiring a professional managed security service provider (MSSP) that can ensure the company’s computer network has the best possible cyber security protections.

Cyber Security Updates Are a Priority. Don’t Wait for a Crisis!

Performing security updates is a matter of company survival. If any of the above signs sound familiar, now is the time to act. By committing to good network security practices and maintaining regular system hygiene, SMBs — no matter how small — remain more resilient against new threats. Remember, the best cyber security for small business does not require a large IT department, just informed decisions and consistent action.

Expert Services Make Recovery Possible After a Cyber Attack

Contact your cyber security provider to set up regular assessments for your network. If you do not use a cyber security professional, ask your IT provider to recommend one. Managed cybersecurity services are an affordable option for small and midsized businesses that do not have a full-time security officer. Professional services cost a very small percentage of the price of a single cyberattack, so ignoring cyber security is a risk not worth taking.