Final answer:
To mitigate technology security risks, regularly updating and patching software is the most effective action. This helps fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers, while practices such as sharing passwords or disabling firewalls increase risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of technology security risks, the most helpful action in mitigating potential threats is regularly updating and patching software. This practice is crucial because updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version was released. By applying these updates, you can protect your system from being exploited by attackers who target these known vulnerabilities.
Conversely, sharing passwords among team members, disabling firewalls, and ignoring software security alerts can severely compromise security and are highly inadvisable practices. Effective password management involves keeping passwords confidential and using strong, unique passwords for each account. Firewalls act as a protective barrier between your network and potential intruders, so disabling them can leave your system exposed. Lastly, paying attention to software security alerts can provide timely warning about potential security issues that may need immediate action.