Kaspersky’s guide to tidying up your digital life

Kaspersky, a cybersecurity solutions firm, recommends tackling the overlooked menace of digital clutter to protect your precious data this year.

In this age of rapid digital expansion, digital clutter arises from the relentless creation of files and documents. Users install numerous apps, often neglecting updates and overlooking security settings. The result? Accumulated digital debris that lurks unused and idle, crowding our devices and cloud storage.

Managing this clutter is critical. Citing available statistics, Kaspersky said that while a majority of people (55%) regularly review and delete unused files, a significant portion (32%) only sporadically declutter, and alarmingly, 13% don’t make any deletion attempts at all.

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The results of clutter

The consequences of this clutter are significant. The top data stored on devices, such as personal photos, travel videos, emails, contact information, and messages, represent valuable, sensitive information. Yet, disorganization poses risks: difficulties in locating files, susceptibility to cyber incidents, and potential security breaches.

The year 2023 witnessed cyber incidents in the Philippines, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals, businesses, and governments. Ransomware attacks and data breaches compromised personal and financial information, impacting ordinary citizens unexpectedly. 

“When it comes to cybersecurity, education is the most powerful form of defense. The more we educate and prepare ourselves, the more likely that we can minimize the risks to our personal data and money,” said Yeo Siang Tiong, general manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.  

A Kaspersky report showed the top 5 data that are commonly stored on devices are general photos and videos (90%), photos and videos of travel and personal emails (tied at 89% each), address information/contact information (84%), and personal messages via SMS/IM (79%). 

Kaspersky offers practical advice and resources to support individuals in safeguarding their data:

1. Embrace Passwordless Sign-Ins: Leading tech companies have introduced passwordless sign-ins, significantly reducing hijack risks. Utilize this technology where available to bolster account security.

2. Minimize Information Leak: Limit personal data exposure by providing minimal information to non-critical services and utilizing disposable email addresses and phone numbers.

3. Reassess Social Media Use: Consider stepping away or migrating to less toxic platforms to shield mental health from negative online environments.

4. Manage Screen Time: Set time limits for social networks and news apps to prevent excessive usage and nervous energy consumption.

5. Separate Personal and Work Life: Maintain a clear division between personal and work-related devices and information to enhance both cybersecurity and personal well-being.

6. Prioritize Cyber Hygiene: Regularly update software, use robust security tools, and adopt unique passwords for each site to fortify digital defense.

By incorporating these tips into your digital routine, you can boost your cyber defenses and safeguard your valuable data effectively. A little effort today can save you from significant hassles tomorrow.