Digital cleaning of electronic devices enhances cybersecurity and reduces risks

Abu Dhabi, May 19, 2017 – The periodic inspection and cleaning of electronic devices constitutes one of the most prominent preventive practices that enhance the cybersecurity of individuals and institutions in light of the escalation of digital threats and the increasing reliance on mobile phones, tablets, and computers in various aspects of daily life and work.

The UAE Government Cyber ​​Security Council confirmed in statements to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, that periodic cleaning of devices, whether mobile phones or personal tablets, represents an important preventive measure that contributes to reducing cyber incidents and attacks by up to 30% and provides users with an additional layer of protection against malware and growing electronic threats.

The Council explained that the accumulation of unnecessary files and data inside devices facilitates the infiltration of malicious software and increases the possibility of users being exposed to cyber risks, including losing data, breaching privacy, or exploiting security vulnerabilities to access sensitive information.

He pointed out that the accumulation of unused files and neglected applications also reflects on the performance of devices, as it leads to slow operation, the appearance of frequent errors and unusual messages, in addition to full storage space, which are all major indicators that indicate the device’s need for cleaning and periodic examination.

The Council stated that adopting a simple digital cleaning routine directly contributes to raising the level of electronic security, explaining that this routine includes using reliable protection programs to scan devices and detect malware, in addition to deleting unnecessary files and applications and constantly updating operating systems and applications to address gaps and improve performance.

He stressed that neglecting these procedures opens the way for fraudsters and electronic attackers to exploit security vulnerabilities, stressing that prevention of digital risks begins with simple daily practices carried out by the user himself and is an essential part of sound cyber behavior.

The Council warned that the accumulation of unused files and data not only slows down the performance of devices, but may also create a suitable environment for malware activity, which may take multiple forms, including viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious software that aims to disrupt systems, steal data, or encrypt files, and demand sums of money in exchange for restoring them.

He pointed out that digital cleaning contributes to reducing other cyber threats, including phishing attacks and misleading messages that aim to deceive users and push them to share sensitive information such as passwords or banking data and credit card numbers.

The Council stressed that applying digital cleaning practices on a regular basis reflects an advanced awareness of the importance of cybersecurity and requires a commitment to sound digital habits and a keenness to follow up on the latest threats and risks, in addition to keeping security software updated as it is one of the first lines of defense against cyberattacks.

He explained that the benefits of periodic cleaning are not limited to enhancing protection only, but extend to improving the overall performance of devices, extending their operational life, and raising the efficiency of use, which reflects positively on the digital productivity of individuals and institutions alike.

The Cybersecurity Council considered that attention to the cleanliness of the digital environment is no less important than preserving the physical environment, stressing that small details and simple daily practices may constitute the difference between a secure device and another that is vulnerable to hacking or data loss.

This awareness comes within the “Cyber ​​Pulse” campaign launched by the Cyber ​​Security Council as part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to build a secure cyberspace that protects users from growing digital risks, and keeps pace with rapid technical developments within a comprehensive national vision to enhance confidence in the country’s digital system, and establish a culture of cybersecurity to ensure the safety and privacy of citizens and residents in the era of accelerating digital transformation.

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