Why Patching and Firmware Upgrades Matter
In today’s tech-savvy world, cybercriminals are constantly seeking vulnerabilities. Therefore, understanding the importance of patching and firmware upgrades is essential for maintaining the security and efficiency of IT systems. These updates often include critical fixes for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit, leading to potential data breaches or system failures.
Continuous vigilance and updates
Technology evolves rapidly, necessitating continuous testing and retesting of systems to check for vulnerabilities. This isn’t a one-time effort. New threats emerge regularly, making it vital to keep up with patches and firmware upgrades. Software and hardware vendors, including Toshiba, emphasize the necessity of upgrading to newer versions to benefit from enhanced security features and maintain compatibility.
The importance of staying updated
Unfortunately, many IT teams struggle to stay on top of these updates. According to the 2020 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, 43% of breaches involved vulnerabilities where patches were available but not applied. Similarly, a 2022 Ponemon Institute report found that unpatched vulnerabilities were the source of 80% of successful breaches. These statistics underscore the critical importance of staying updated.
Unpatched systems are common targets for ransomware attacks. For example, the WannaCry ransomware exploited a vulnerability for which a patch had been released months before the attack. Imagine explaining to your boss that a security breach could have been prevented with timely updates.
Cyber-insurance and patching
Did you know that most cyber-insurance policies require that you have the latest patches and firmware applied? If not, they may not pay out in the event of a breach. The stakes are high, and staying updated is crucial. Constant monitoring and solid partnerships are your best options. Here’s how Toshiba stays ahead:
Partnerships with industry leaders
As a member of leading industry standards bodies such as the Common Criteria Portal, Toshiba helps design security profiles for hardware and software. We also partner with CSIRTs (Computer Security Incident Response Teams) like JPCERT/CC. JPCERT collaborates with trusted CSIRTs worldwide, allowing us to proactively monitor vulnerabilities in real-time and take preventive measures.
Global security team
When a vulnerability is discovered, our global Product Security Incident Response Team (PSIRT) addresses it based on its CVSS score. Often, we can fix vulnerabilities before customers are exposed to any risks. Learn more about our PSIRT team here.
Cloud-based tools for deploying security updates
- Toshiba addresses known vulnerabilities through firmware updates. Recent updates include fixes such as removing hard-coded sensitive information, blocking code execution with insufficient privileges, and preventing cross-site scripting vulnerabilities. We strive to make firmware updates easy to deploy, even at scale.
- Our cloud-based application, Elevate Sky® MFPConnect, helps Toshiba and its resellers remotely manage print environments at scale, simplifying fleet management, including monitoring and updating firmware levels. Discover more about MFPConnect.
- Stay current with the latest firmware updates by visiting Toshiba Tec’s information page. This helps you avoid confusion from random news outlets that often report vulnerabilities after they’ve been fixed.
Toshiba’s commitment to security
Toshiba’s constant focus on its SecureMFP platform and quick response to known vulnerabilities demonstrate its commitment to security. Our measures ensure that our devices remain secure and reliable for users.
Patching and firmware upgrades are not just routine maintenance tasks; they are critical defenses against the ever-present threat of cyber-attacks. Toshiba’s latest firmware update exemplifies how a company can take necessary steps to protect its customers and their data. Staying current with updates is not just recommended—it’s essential for security.
