Avoiding Technology: A Healthy and Secure Experience

In today's world, separating from smartphones or laptops has become nearly impossible. According to a 2024 report by the analytics firm Reviews.org, the average American spends approximately 2.5 months per year on their smartphone. This statistic clearly illustrates how deeply technology has integrated into our daily lives.

What Is Digital Detox?

Digital detox refers to the temporary disconnection from digital devices, notifications, and applications. A review of 10 studies conducted between 2013 and 2023 reveals that digital detoxing can:
• Improve sleep quality and mental health
• Reduce anxiety, stress, and depression
• Restore focus and deep cognitive processing
• Help manage smartphone dependency

However, the main challenge remains: How can we disconnect from technology without compromising our digital security?

Potential Risks During a Digital Detox

Disconnecting from the internet without proper preparation can lead to serious issues such as:
• Hacking of online accounts (e.g., Google, Apple, Instagram)
• Misuse of subscriptions and automatic charges
• Leakage of personal data due to lack of two-factor authentication
• Spam sent via your devices
• Theft or loss of digital gadgets
• Household risks like burglary or gas and water leaks

How to Disconnect Safely from the Digital World

1. Secure Accounts and Data

• List and cancel unnecessary subscriptions
• Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager
• Enable two-factor authentication (preferably via an app)
• Back up important data locally and to the cloud
• Grant emergency access to trusted individuals

2. Protect Your Devices

• Keep operating systems and apps up to date
• Use reputable antivirus software and enable disk encryption
• Activate “Find My Device” features on your phone
• Secure your SIM card with a PIN or password
• If using an eSIM, store the activation QR code safely

3. Manage Smart Home Security

• Review digital legacy settings in Google or Apple accounts
• Connect surveillance cameras to a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
• Change default passwords on routers and IoT devices
• Enable smart alerts for smoke, gas leaks, or water damage

Tips for Holidays and Reducing Tech Dependency

• Limit apps and notifications (use Focus Mode on iOS/Android)
• Avoid real-time photo sharing; post memories later
• Inform others that you'll be unavailable for a period
• Carry only one essential device
• Avoid public Wi-Fi; use secure mobile internet instead

What to Do After You Return

• Power on your devices and install pending updates
• Review messages and notifications, especially banking and security alerts
• Check if your SIM card is active and look for suspicious activity
• Evaluate the performance of your digital infrastructure and apply improvements if needed

If you’ve successfully completed a digital detox, you’ve not only given yourself a much-needed break but also demonstrated that you take digital security seriously.

 

Source: MedadPress
www.medadpress.ir