Cleanup files and communications
Why
Digital clutter accumulates everywhere - cloud storage fills with old backups, local folders overflow with outdated files, and years of communication histories consume storage and create privacy risks. Regular cleanup helps manage storage costs, improves device performance, protects privacy by removing old sensitive conversations, and makes it easier to find what you actually need.
Action
Cloud Storage:
- Log into each of your cloud storage services (e.g., Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive)
- Check your current storage usage against your plan’s limit
- Delete old backups, redundant copies, and temporary files
- Review and adjust sharing settings on folders and files
- Empty the cloud service’s trash or recycle bin
Local Files:
- Clean up Desktop folder - move or delete temporary files and organize remaining items
- Review Documents folder - archive or delete old project files and outdated documents
- Clear Downloads folder - delete old installers, PDFs, and other downloaded files
- Empty computer’s Recycle Bin/Trash after cleanup
Communication Histories:
- Email: Archive emails older than 2 years, delete spam/promotional emails, empty trash folder
- Text Messages/SMS: Delete old conversation threads, especially those with sensitive information
- Social Media: Review and delete old direct messages and chat histories on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp
- Messaging Apps: Clean up old conversations in Slack, Discord, Teams, or other messaging platforms
- Consider exporting important conversations before deletion if needed for records
Remember
Before deleting anything, ensure you have backups of important data. Old communications may contain login credentials, important receipts, or sentimental value - export these before deletion. This annual cleanup significantly reduces your digital footprint and the amount of personal data that could be exposed in a breach.