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2026-02-07 blog.readTime
The New Year Digital Cleanup: A Complete Checklist (2025)
The Clutter Problem
Every app you've ever used probably still has access to your data. That pizza ordering app from 2018? It might still have your credit card. That game you played once? It might be tracking your location.
Risk Factor: Old, unused accounts are prime targets for hackers because nobody is watching them. If one gets breached, they can use it to pivot to your active accounts.
Phase 1: The Account Purge
- Delete unused apps: Scroll through your phone. If you haven't opened it in 6 months, verify it doesn't have crucial data, then delete the account inside the app before uninstalling the app itself.
- Audit "Sign in with Google/Facebook": Go to your Google Account > Security > Connections to Third Party Apps. Remove anything you don't recognize or no longer use. Do the same for Facebook and Apple ID.
- Hunting for Zombies: Search your email inbox for keywords like "Verify your email" or "Welcome to" to find old accounts you forgot about.
Phase 2: Data Detox
- Downloads Folder: Empty your reliable "Downloads" folder on your PC/Mac. It's often full of sensitive documents (PDFs, tax forms) that you don't need cluttering your drive.
- Old Screenshots: Delete accidental screenshots or temporary images that are taking up iCloud/Google Photos space.
Phase 3: Security Tune-up
- Update Recovery Info: Is your recovery email still valid? What about your trusted phone number? If you changed jobs, make sure your recovery email isn't your old work address!
- Check for Updates: Run updates on your router, smart home devices, and printers. These often get ignored.
The Reward: A smaller digital footprint means a smaller attack surface. Plus, a cleaner digital life leads to less anxiety and better focus.