Is it safe to install automatic updates?

Question

I'm always a little concerned that proposed updates, like Windows or Firefox, which are downloaded automatically and then display a message which I'm supposed to click if I want to install, might actually be spyware or badware from a phisher.

Of course I want the updates and it's practical to have them download automatically but is there a risk of installing software with bad intentions?

The last one (Firefox) apparently doesn't even give me a choice. It is ready and informs me that it will execute the next time I startup the program.

Answer 1

Firefox and Windows are both have very tight upgrade policies, so there's no need to worry about upgrading those. In both cases, it may be a good idea to see what is being upgraded. For instance, in Firefox, version 3.0 will be coming out in the next few months, and not all addon's will work with it. Likewise, Microsoft recently released a "Malicious tool remover" which is essentially Microsoft's antivirus - something you may or may not want to use. But generally, upgrades for major software packages are nothing to be concerned about.

Answer 2

If your conserned on where they are coming from, go directly to the source and download them there : go to http://microsoft.com and go to the updates section on the left.

To feel safer on the computer, get an antispyware program to find out where those spyware is coming from. I'd suggest going to http://www.download.com and getting either Adaware or Spybot search and destroy

Not sure where to get updates directly for Firefox but that browser is a little more secure so as long as your running the spyware scans on the computer is should be ok!

Answer 3

Automatic updates from a reliable vendor, like Microsoft are a good thing. I only allow Microsoft to download updates to my machine. I only allow the download, I decide if and when I want to install them. You can set up Microsoft updates this way.

As far as other reliable vendors, I upgrade only the necessary software, such as video drivers or other hardware.

Answer 4

Contact Firefox and find out if you can eliminate or be warned if you want the updates. Not good if you don't need updates that duplicates what is already in your computer. Security updates are essential to keep up with the spy ware and hackers. I have messages on my update that allow me to accept or not the update materials.
Spartawo...

Answer 5

The only other way around this is to install it off of a cd. But it sounds like something in your registry might be screwed up to not allow this install. Cause if its taking that long, maybe something on your system is refusing its install. Check out your security settings and firewall settings, might find something there.. send me a message on yahoo messenger if you get stuck. sbcc_jackal

Answer 6

I have a mac, so I don't worry much about apple updates. If I were concerened about it, I could download them directly from their website. Dont know if micro$oft gives u a similar option, but I'd think they would.

With respect to firefox, you can go into preferences>advanced>updates, and turn off auto updates.

Answer 7

The best way to make sure they are accredited Websites that are supplying the update to you check the URL Address at the top of your browser. If you are recieving updates from Microsoft it should show the http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate in the history bar. That is where the update is coming from .Rest assured those updates are important

Answer 8

Well firefow is a portal for viruses, spyware, and malware. Though trusted programs updates are plainly a good thing.

Answer 9

I hope so, now I'm paranoid. The last thing I need is a computer screwup.

Answer 10

don't ur system have protection?u need those updates to solve problems n to keep ur system running smooth