NCSA, BBB urge internet users to take part in digital “spring cleaning”

The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) announced a call to consumers this week to make digital devices an additional target of annual spring cleaning activities.

The NCSA and the BBB encouraged businesses to go through an annual spring cleaning by purging all necessary files, enhancing security features and making sure online reputations remain solid.

“Seasonal changes always have an impact on our lives ‒ whether it’s the biannual changing of our clocks or swapping our skis for a baseball glove,” Michael Kaiser, executive director of the NCSA, said. “It has also become the time to declutter and start anew. Our lives have become increasingly connected and, with multiple devices, we accumulate digital clutter that needs attention. That’s why we’re adding a new spin on spring cleaning that can help you be more secure online, protect valuable, personal information and avoid identity theft. By following our handy checklist, investing a little time each week and performing a series of simple chores, you can dramatically strengthen your security posture. In addition, your digital life will be more manageable and you will have peace of mind that you are helping protect your family and the extended online community while enjoying the Internet with greater confidence.”

The groups released a four-week timeline plan to help businesses complete the important tasks. The first week focuses on keeping machines clean by keeping all current software as up-to-date as possible and cleaning any mobile footprint that may have come up over the previous year. The second week focuses on ensuring that all network are secure, while the third week focuses on digital file purges and protection. The final week of training deals with cleaning up a company’s online reputation.