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Let’s be real: We’re all guilty of letting our digital lives get a little chaotic. Between signing up for apps you used once, forgetting old accounts and that ever-growing pile of unorganised files, your online presence might be overdue for a clean-up. Taking some time to do a digital detox isn’t just good for your mental clarity—it’s also a smart move for your online safety. Here’s how you can get started, step by step.
Audit your accounts
Start by listing all the accounts you’ve created over the years. This might feel like an overwhelming task, but think about all the social media platforms, shopping sites, subscription services and forums you’ve joined. Search your email inbox for keywords like “welcome,” “verify your account,” or “receipt” to jog your memory.
Once you’ve identified these accounts, decide which ones you no longer use. For those, log in and delete them. If you can’t remember the login details, consider using password recovery options to regain access before deleting them.
Tidy up your permissions
Have you ever installed an app that asked for permissions to access your contacts, camera or location? These permissions often linger, even after you stop using the app. On your smartphone, go into the settings and review app permissions. Revoke access for apps you don’t use or for permissions that seem unnecessary. For example, does that photo editing app really need access to your microphone?
On social media, check which third-party apps and websites are connected to your accounts. Remove access for anything that no longer serves you or seems suspicious.
Secure and organise your files
Digital clutter doesn’t just happen in your accounts—it’s also hiding in your devices. Start with your desktop or phone. Delete files, screenshots and photos you no longer need. Once that’s done, organise what’s left into folders with clear labels. Bonus points if you back everything up to a secure cloud service or an external hard drive.
While you’re at it, review where your important documents are stored. Are they safe? Password-protect sensitive files and consider using encryption tools for an extra layer of security.
Strengthen your security
Now that your digital space is decluttered, it’s time to make it more secure. Start by updating your passwords. Use a password manager to create unique, strong passwords for each account. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This adds an extra step to logging in, like entering a code sent to your phone, making it much harder for hackers to get in.
Why it’s worth it
Decluttering your digital life comes with immediate benefits. You’ll feel less overwhelmed when everything is organised, and your devices might even run faster. More importantly, you’re protecting yourself from potential threats like identity theft or data breaches. Think of it as spring cleaning for your online world—a fresh start for your mind and your security.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a coffee, put on some good music and start your digital detox before semester 1 kicks off. Your future self will thank you!
