Anthony Albanese, Australia's prime minister, has urged residents to reboot their smartphones daily as a proactive cybersecurity measure. This advice, echoed by tech experts, aims to minimize the risk of cyber threats.
By forcibly closing background applications and processes, regular reboots can help protect against malicious monitoring and data collection. While the practice may not deter determined hackers, it can add an extra layer of defense.
Why Turning Off Your Smartphone is Good
Dr. Priyadarsi Nanda, a cybersecurity specialist at the University of Technology Sydney, explains that rebooting a phone shuts down background processes that may be compromising user privacy.
Many users are unaware that apps continue to run in the background, making regular reboots a crucial practice. Although manually closing apps can provide some benefits, turning off the phone entirely can halt any potential malicious processes that may be operating.
According to The Guardian, while regular reboots offer advantages, experts caution against relying solely on this practice.
Dr. Arash Shaghaghi, a cybersecurity lecturer at the University of New South Wales, notes that certain phone components remain active even when turned off.
Advanced hacking techniques, such as zero-click exploits, can bypass these measures. However, rebooting can still pose challenges for attackers, as they would need to find alternative means to exploit the device once powered back on. Additionally, enabling airplane mode can further enhance device security.
Having a Good Cyber Hygiene is Essential
Experts emphasize that regular reboots serve as a fundamental step in promoting good cyber hygiene. Disconnecting from the digital realm periodically can help minimize certain risks.
People should avoid developing a false sense of security. At all times, they should still stay vigilant on the apps that they are installing on their phones, as well as their permitted access.
Malicious apps can compromise privacy by tracking location data and listening to conversations. Being mindful of app choices and permissions is vital for maintaining cyber safety.
Shaghaghi adds that rebooting a smartphone can pose some hurdles to remote attackers who want to exploit the devices, 9to5Mac reports. Because of this, they will be forced to find another way to compromise the phone.
Effective Cybersecurity Approach
While daily reboots can contribute to cybersecurity, they may not deter determined hackers who specifically target individuals. Recent revelations about sophisticated hacking technologies employed to target world leaders highlight the need for ongoing vigilance.
Adopting a comprehensive cybersecurity approach that includes regular reboots, careful app selection, and permission management is essential for safeguarding personal information.
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