Cyberattacks are a problem that all users are exposed to, because even if we are not multimillionaires or have super confidential information, we are all potential targets for cybercriminals.
Normally, the device that interests these criminals the most is our smartphone, since it is generally the one that has the most information about us and our banking data. At the same time, it is also the device that users tend to be less careful with when opening links, URLs or downloading files.
There are many ways to protect our phone, such as having an antivirus or following basic cybersecurity rules, but according to the US National Security Agency (NSA), there is one action that may seem very simple but is key to protecting ourselves.
In a document that offers tips and best practices for protecting data stored on our phones, the NSA recommends that everyone turn off their mobile phone at least once a week, or that this device does not remain on for more than 168 consecutive hours.
Why should we turn off our phone once a week?
As they explain, this simple act helps you defend against zero-day vulnerabilities, which are unknown to the manufacturer or developer, but exploited by cybercriminals. The reason why it is advisable to do this is because turning off the phone cuts off any possible flow of information to criminals, in case your phone is infected.
Although your phone may not be infected with spyware or something similar, turning it off once a week costs you nothing, and can prevent you from more than one unpleasant surprise. In addition, this action has additional benefits, and if you decide to restart it, updates will be completed and errors that could cause an attack will be corrected.
In fact, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recommended a few months ago to do the same, but he recommended doing it every night, undoubtedly your device will be much safer if you do it every night, but once a week is a good practice.
