A Patch in Time Saves Nine: Liability Risks for Unpatched Software

Computer security issues are commanding rapidly increasing attention from companies, due to increases in both targeted attacks from hackers, and Internet viruses and worms that affect numerous computer systems simultaneously. For both types of attacks, an important line of defense for a company is to make sure that its computers run only updated software, including the use of "patches" to repair identified security holes. Computer security experts have long recommended prompt installation of patches, invoking the old saw that "a stitch in time saves nine." This article suggests that risks of legal liability for companies that do not apply security patches promptly are significant and increasing.

19 minute read April 01, 2004 at 10:41 AM
By
Stewart Baker and Maury Shenk
A Patch in Time Saves Nine: Liability Risks for Unpatched Software

Computer security issues are commanding rapidly increasing attention from companies, due to increases in both targeted attacks from hackers, and Internet viruses and worms that affect numerous computer systems simultaneously.

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