In an age when smartphones have become extensions of ourselves, going without one even for a short period can feel unthinkable. From taking calls and texts to checking emails, ordering food, and getting around, phones keep people connected to just about everything. But according to the National Security Agency (NSA), there are moments when turning off your phone isn’t just a polite courtesy at places like weddings or movie theaters—it’s also good security practice. In its report on “Mobile Device Best Practices,” the NSA recommends that mobile users shut down their devices at least once a week to help protect personal information. Released in 2020, this document is full of advice for minimizing risks associated with our reliance on smartphones.
The NSA notes that threats to mobile devices are continually growing in complexity and frequency, often leveraging new ways to exploit device vulnerabilities. While many smartphone features are incredibly convenient, they often come with security trade-offs. For instance, some features make it easier for hackers to attempt attacks like spearfishing or even zero-click exploits—where harmful software or malware installs itself without the user needing to do anything. According to a report from PCMag, a zero-click attack doesn’t need a user’s direct action (like opening an infected link), making it an especially stealthy form of attack. The NSA highlights that simply turning a phone off and back on at least once a week can reduce the risk of some malware that can’t survive a power cycle, acting as a simple preventative measure against non-persistent threats.
Cybersecurity experts back the NSA’s advice, even as they clarify some misconceptions. Forbes contributor and cybersecurity analyst Davey Winder acknowledged that while restarting a phone may not be foolproof, it can serve as a good first line of defense against basic threats. Jake Moore, a cybersecurity specialist with ESET, added that zero-click malware is an ongoing issue for both Apple and Android devices, although companies are typically quick to release updates to address these vulnerabilities. Moore also pointed out that regularly rebooting your device could have a secondary benefit—it might actually help extend the phone’s battery life.
Beyond simply restarting a device, Moore and other security experts recommend additional precautions. Keeping a phone’s operating system up to date is critical, as software updates often include security patches that help fend off the latest threats. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency also suggests using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication, especially for sensitive accounts. These measures collectively add multiple layers of security, making it harder for potential hackers to gain unauthorized access to a device.
While it may seem over-cautious to power down a phone regularly, the NSA’s advice highlights the importance of proactive security measures. By powering off weekly, keeping software updated, and using strong password protection, users can make a real difference in the security of their mobile devices. In a digital world rife with sophisticated malware and hackers, taking simple steps like these might be one of the easiest and most effective ways to guard personal data.
