On average, users take more actions to keep their mobile devices clean and updated than their PCs, according to new research from Kaspersky comparing the hygiene habits for smartphones and PCs.
The global survey showed that smartphone users are noticeably more proactive when it comes to keeping their devices up‑to‑date, with 77% regularly updating their operating system and apps, compared to only 53% of PC users.
In terms of media and file management, smartphone and PC users also demonstrate different patterns as 72% of smartphone users regularly manage or delete photos and videos, versus 49% of PC users. At the same time, only 46% of smartphone users organise files and emails into folders or apply naming conventions, whereas 57% of PC users do so.
When it comes to removing unused software, 73% of smartphone owners delete rarely used apps, while just 47% of PC users do the same.
Limited storage on phones probably drives this habit, encouraging users to prune apps more actively. However, Kaspersky experts highlight that deleting old or unnecessary apps on PCs is also beneficial for the device’s performance and security. Over time, accumulated unnecessary apps can slow down device’s performance, while some apps contain personal or financial data and usage history which can be exploited by cybercriminals.
Interestingly, in both groups, a very moderate share of users demonstrated security‑related cleanup actions.
Just 33% of mobile users and 31% of PC users regularly change passwords; 29% and 28% back up important data; and only 20% (mobile) vs 16% (PC) review or update app permissions and privacy settings. Kaspersky specialists view this as a concerning trend because these cyber‑hygiene practices are among the most effective ways to protect personal and financial information.
All the abovementioned differences between PCs and mobile cleanup habits largely stem from the distinct usage scenarios of smartphones and PCs.
Mobile phones are primarily used for taking photos and videos, chatting, watching content, and accessing the Internet quickly. On top of this – for the majority of users (58%) – mobile phones have become their main devices for accessing the Internet which naturally leads to taking more digital hygiene actions.
However, the PC keeps its important role as the main tool for working with files and programs and solving work tasks. And for the significant part (58%) of the older generation (61+ y. o.), the PC is still the main option for accessing the Internet.
Kaspersky experts emphasise that digital cleanup practices are equally valuable on both platforms and therefore users should give comparable attention to maintaining the hygiene of both.
“Every device we use, whether a phone or a PC, holds a growing volume of personal and financial information,” says Marina Titova, vice-president for Consumer Business at Kaspersky. “Photos, messages, bank details, work documents, passwords – all of it is valuable – and all of it is a target for cybercriminals.
“Neglecting basic digital hygiene like removing unused accounts, backing up data, or managing privacy settings leaves that information potentially exposed,” she adds.