As club administrators, you're juggling countless responsibilities—from managing team sheets to coordinating events. In the midst of all this activity, it's easy to dismiss those software update notifications that pop up on your laptops and phones. However, these updates are one of your strongest defences against cyber criminals who specifically target sports organisations.

Think of an unpatched device like leaving a window unlocked in your club's office. Cyber criminals are constantly searching for these "unlocked windows"—known as vulnerabilities—in outdated software. When your devices aren't updated, you're essentially providing easy access to your club's valuable information, including member data, financial records, and communication.

Recent research shows that 60% of data breaches are caused by unpatched software vulnerabilities. For sports clubs, this means that outdated devices could put your entire member database and club operations at risk.

Software updates (also called patches) are like security repairs for your devices. Just as you'd fix a broken lock on your clubhouse door, software developers regularly release updates to fix security weaknesses in their programs. These updates don't just add new features—they plug security gaps that cyber criminals might exploit.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre explains that "by always updating software, you are essentially plugging known gaps that cybercriminals might use to try and get through".

The easiest way to stay secure is to enable automatic updates on all your devices. Most modern devices can update themselves overnight while charging and connected to Wi-Fi, so you won't be interrupted during club activities.

For your club devices:

• Windows devices: Use Windows Update to automatically download and install security patches
• Apple devices: (iPhone, iPad, Mac): Enable automatic updates in Settings
• Android phones and tablets: Allow Google Play Store to update apps automatically
• Other software: Check if your software, email programs, and browsers have automatic update options

Some older software may require manual updates. In these cases, regularly check for updates through the software's settings menu. Make this a monthly task on your club administration calendar.

If your device or software no longer receives updates from the manufacturer, it's time to consider upgrading. Using outdated systems that no longer receive security patches leaves your club vulnerable to cyber attacks, as these known weaknesses become easy targets for criminals.

• Enable automatic updates on all club devices when you first set them up
• Check that devices have sufficient storage space (full storage can prevent updates from installing)
• Back up important club data before major system upgrades
• Include device update status in your regular club maintenance reviews

Ensure all club staff and key volunteers understand the importance of accepting update notifications promptly. A few minutes spent updating devices can save hours of recovery time after a cyber incident.

If you suspect your club has been affected by a cyber security incident, don't wait. Contact the Australian Cyber Security Centre Hotline at 1300 CYBER1 (1300 292 371) - available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also report incidents online through ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au/report

For more comprehensive guidance on protecting your club's digital assets, visit:

• cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/securing-your-devices - General device security advice
• cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/securing-your-devices/how-secure-your-devices - Step-by-step device security guides
• cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/securing-your-devices/how-update-your-device-and-software - Detailed updating instructions for different devices
• cyber.gov.au/business-government/protecting-devices-systems - Business-focused security guidance

The ACSC also offers free resources including email alerts about new threats and guidance specifically designed for small businesses and community organisations.

Keeping your devices updated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your rugby club from cyber threats. It costs nothing, takes minimal time when automated, and provides crucial protection for your club's data and operations. In a world where cyber attacks on sports organisations are increasing, this basic security measure could save your club from significant disruption and financial loss.

Remember: updated devices are harder to hack and help ensure your club can focus on what matters most - supporting your players and community.

This guidance is based on advice from the Australian Cyber Security Centre. For the latest updates and additional resources, visit cyber.gov.au/learn-basics/explore-basics/update-your-devices. .