The National Security Agency (NSA) in the United States has issued a simple yet impactful cybersecurity recommendation: switch off and restart your smartphone at least once a week. This advice aims to counter cyberattacks that exploit temporary files stored on devices.
Why Restarting Matters
According to Darren Guccione, cybersecurity expert and CEO of Keeper Security, restarting your phone weekly helps reset its software and eliminate any potential issues that may accumulate over time. “Smartphones operate similarly to computers,” Guccione explains, “with numerous processes and apps running in the background, which can lead to slow performance, glitches, and even security vulnerabilities.”
Turning off your phone interrupts these processes, closes potential loopholes cybercriminals might exploit, and clears sensitive temporary files. While not a comprehensive solution, Guccione notes that this simple act can enhance your phone’s performance and offer some protection against specific types of attacks.
Beyond Restarting: Holistic Security Practices
Guccione stresses that rebooting is just one piece of the puzzle. For optimal security, it should be combined with other measures such as:
Keeping your system updated.
Deleting unused apps.
Using unique and strong passwords for all accounts.
Advanced Security Tips
Chris Hook, another cybersecurity expert, highlights more effective strategies to safeguard your device:
Keep Software Updated: “Always ensure your operating system and apps are up to date,” Hook advises. Updates typically include security and privacy fixes to protect against known threats.
Download Apps from Trusted Sources: Stick to official app stores and avoid unverified websites to minimise risks.
Disable Bluetooth When Not in Use: While inconvenient for some users, this step helps protect against external attacks.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Public networks are notoriously unsafe. If using them is unavoidable, enable a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and secure your data.
While restarting your phone weekly might seem like a small step, it plays a significant role in maintaining device security and performance.
