A simple digital action to support SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
Most of the world’s infrastructure now runs on software.
From hospitals and schools to energy grids and transport systems, code keeps things moving.
But outdated software quietly weakens the systems we rely on.
Why this matters
Unpatched software is one of the leading causes of cyber incidents worldwide.
- The World Economic Forum consistently ranks cyber insecurity among the top global risks, noting that many incidents stem from unpatched systems (Source: World Economic Forum)
- The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) reports that large-scale cyber incidents often exploit known vulnerabilities where updates already existed (Source: European Union Agency for CyberSecurity)
- The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) highlights secure and resilient digital infrastructure as a foundation for sustainable development (Source: International Telecommunication Union)
Digital infrastructure is only as strong as its weakest, most outdated link.
The small action
Turn on automatic updates for your operating system and essential apps.
Do this once on:
- your phone
- your laptop or desktop
- your tablet
Automatic updates quietly install security fixes that protect your device — and the wider digital systems it connects to.
Caution
Automatic updates aren’t “set and forget” forever.
- For work-critical or specialized software, updates can occasionally change features or settings
- In rare cases, updates may introduce temporary bugs or compatibility issues
To stay safe:
- Keep important files backed up
- If you rely on specific tools for work, skim update notes before major upgrades
- Leave auto-updates on for security patches, even if you delay feature updates briefly
The goal is resilience — not disruption.
How this helps
This micro action supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by:
- Reducing system-wide security vulnerabilities
- Improving the reliability of shared digital infrastructure
- Supporting safer innovation and connectivity
Secure systems enable trust. Trust enables progress.
Make it stick
After enabling auto-updates, set a 6-month reminder to confirm the setting is still on — especially after buying a new device.
Small action. Stronger systems.
You don’t need to be a tech expert.
You don’t need to track threats.
Sometimes, supporting resilient infrastructure is as simple as letting updates run in the background.
