Kaspersky has compared the most popular digital hygiene habits for smartphones and PCs and found that cleanup actions differ according to the device. On average, users take more actions to keep their mobile devices clean and updated than their PCs. Kaspersky experts highlight actions that help maintain devices’ security.
The survey* conducted by Kaspersky’s market research center in 2026, 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 organize 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. To make sensitive data truly protected experts recommend using a dedicated security solution like Kaspersky password manager which, apart from securely keeping users’ credentials and bank cards, has a special secret vault functionality aimed at storing important documents, for example, scanned Passports/IDs and PDF files, addresses and notes.
All mentioned 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 emphasize that digital cleanup practices are equally valuable on both platforms, and therefore users should give comparable attention to maintaining the hygiene of their mobile devices and personal computers.
“Every device we use, whether a phone or a PC, holds a growing volume of personal and financial information. 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. Kaspersky solutions are designed to help users take control of their digital footprint, combining automated protection with tools that make regular security maintenance easier and more effective,” comments Marina Titova, Vice President for Consumer Business at Kaspersky.
Kaspersky shares tips on how to make cleanup habits regular and beneficial in terms of cybersecurity:
· Set up a recurring calendar reminder (monthly or quarterly) so you never forget to review your devices and accounts.
· Regularly review and delete old unused accounts and saved payment methods. Store all credentials and financial data in a password manager in order not to forget about sites and applications you have registered on.
· Set up automatic backups where possible. Kaspersky Premium allows users to make regular backups and restore information on Windows devices. Backup copies of data can be easily saved on removable drives or in cloud storage in an encrypted format.
· Install comprehensive security software to protect your device from potential malware infection and keep your data safe from breaches.
· Gain new knowledge about technologies and risks to stay up to date on the latest developments. Read the Kaspersky Daily Blog to find out latest cybersecurity news and explore ways to stay protected in digital world.
*The study was conducted by Kaspersky’s market research center in March 2026. 7200 respondents from 18 countries (Brazil, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam) took part in the survey.
