Kaspersky has published findings from a recent survey revealing that smartphone users are significantly more diligent in maintaining the digital cleanliness of their devices compared to desktop computer users. Conducted in March 2026, the survey involved 7,200 respondents across 18 countries, including Indonesia.
Smartphone Users Regularly Update Their Devices
The results indicate that a remarkable 77% of smartphone users regularly update their operating systems and applications. This figure starkly contrasts with the 53% of PC users who engage in similar practices. The trend continues in file management, with 72% of smartphone users routinely deleting old photos and videos, while only 49% of PC users do the same.
Differences in File Organization
However, when it comes to organizing files and emails into folders, PC users demonstrate better habits. The survey found that 57% of PC users regularly categorize their documents, compared to just 46% of smartphone users. This pattern suggests a divergence in how each group manages their digital assets.
Deleting Unused Applications
In terms of removing infrequently used applications, 73% of smartphone owners opt to delete them, whereas only 47% of PC users take similar action. Kaspersky attributes this trend to the limited storage space on smartphones, which compels users to regularly clear out unnecessary applications. Despite this, the company emphasizes that removing old applications on PCs is equally crucial for maintaining performance and security, as accumulated applications can harbor sensitive personal or financial data that might be misused.
Low Cyber Hygiene Practices
Beyond updating and file deletion, the adherence to basic cybersecurity practices is alarmingly low across both platforms. The survey indicates that only 33% of smartphone users and 31% of PC users routinely change their passwords. Data backup practices show similarly low compliance rates, with only 29% of smartphone users and 28% of PC users engaging in regular backups. The most concerning statistic is the review of application permissions and privacy settings, with only 20% of smartphone users and 16% of PC users performing this critical task.
Kaspersky classifies these findings as concerning trends. They argue that maintaining digital hygiene is one of the most effective ways to protect personal and financial information from cyber threats. Marina Titova, Vice President for Consumer Business at Kaspersky, stated, "Every device we use, whether a smartphone or a PC, stores an increasing amount of personal and financial information. Neglecting basic digital hygiene can leave this information vulnerable to exposure."
Usage Patterns Influence Digital Hygiene
The differences in smartphone and PC usage patterns contribute to these results. Smartphones are typically employed for photography, messaging, streaming content, and quick internet access—behaviors that naturally encourage users to clean up their devices more frequently. Kaspersky observed that 58% of respondents now primarily use their smartphones to access the internet. In contrast, PCs remain the preferred choice for older generations, with 58% of respondents aged 61 and above indicating that PCs are still their main online tool.
Importance of Digital Hygiene on PCs
Despite these observations, Kaspersky reminds users of the vital role that PCs play in managing files, applications, and work-related tasks, making digital cleanliness on PCs equally important. To help users establish a routine around data hygiene, Kaspersky has shared several tips.
Source: https://inet.detik.com/consumer/d-8664244/pengguna-lebih-rajin-rawat-hp-dibanding-pc
