If you’re like me, you probably refrain from installing the latest Windows 11 update as soon as it ships. This is because these updates often feature annoying bugs that may alter your operating system’s user experience and interfere with your workflow. For instance, you might recall the April 2024 update for Windows 11 and 10, which contained a bug that prevented users from using VPNs.

However, this time you’ll be better off installing the latest Windows update immediately. According to The Register, Microsoft has issued a fix for a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-30078) affecting both Windows 11 and Windows 10. This vulnerability significantly increases the risk of falling victim to hacker attacks when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.

The critical vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8 out of 10 and is labeled ‘important’ (Microsoft’s second-highest severity rating for security vulnerabilities). This flaw allows hackers to compromise susceptible systems without needing physical access—although they must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the victim.

Hackers do not require authentication to exploit this vulnerability and can access settings and files on the compromised device simply by being on the same Wi-Fi network. Microsoft addressed this severe issue in its monthly security update, which was released on June 11, 2024.

This security flaw poses a higher risk for individuals who frequently use public Wi-Fi, such as those working in hotels, co-working spaces, and cafes. While remote workers operating from the safety of their home networks are less vulnerable, the risk remains for anyone connecting to untrusted networks.

In addition to this critical patch, Microsoft has also rolled out other security enhancements and bug fixes in the latest update. These include improvements to system stability, performance optimizations, and additional security measures to protect against other potential vulnerabilities. To ensure your system remains secure and operates smoothly, it’s crucial to keep your operating system up-to-date with the latest patches and updates from Microsoft.