At the turn of the year, people traditionally think faithfully about their New Year's resolutions. New research from Kaspersky shows that digital resolutions are now also being made. In fact, more than four in 10 (43%) Dutch respondents have resolved to make sweeping changes to their digital habits by 2024.
Digital resolutions are about making promises to change online habits and protect online privacy in the new year. That 43 per cent of Dutch respondents are adding digital resolutions to their lifestyle for this year is no surprise, as we are spending more time than ever online. But what is perhaps even more surprising is that of those who made a digital resolution for 2023 (37 per cent), 74 per cent stuck to it.
The top digital resolutions for the new year are:
Reducing screen time (24%)
Using stronger passwords (16%)
Using the internet to make more money (11%)
Stronger passwords but also sharing passwords
When it comes specifically to privacy and security digital resolutions, most Dutch people say they will use stronger passwords this year (22%). This is followed by the intention to keep email in better order, for example by deleting/archiving emails or unsubscribing from mailing lists, (19%) and adjusting cookie settings on websites instead of simply accepting them (12%).
Social media and mental health
The survey also looked at social media use and digital intentions. One in five (22%) said they would start using social media more consciously, for example by scrolling less aimlessly. Setting a time limit (22%) and avoiding social media while being with family or at dinner (13%), round off the top three.
The good intentions around social media are also reflected in the list of mental health and digital resolutions. Most Dutch people say they will check their social media less (13%), unfollow people or groups that make them unhappy (11%) and make more of an effort to meet people face to face rather than online (11%). All to improve mental health.
"We are spending more time than ever online and just as we constantly evaluate and adjust our real lives to be happier and healthier, it makes sense that we do the same for our online lives. It is encouraging to see people realise the importance of making improvements to their digital lives. For example, by doing a digital detox or setting limits, cleaning up files and improving security and privacy. These steps can have a big impact on online safety and improve our mental health, as we worry less about online fraud and scams. By paying better attention to passwords, not clicking on suspicious links or checking social media settings, you can create a more organised, safe and balanced digital lifestyle," said David Emm, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky.
