Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albaniz suggested that turning off iPhones for five minutes can help protect against spyware, but this advice is not a complete shield against all threats. Journalists at 9to5Mac note that a simple reboot does not eliminate every virus or hacking risk.
Some observers caution that a daily reboot might create a perception that it solves broader security issues. The consensus among experts is that while a reboot can interrupt certain malware processes, it does not replace comprehensive security practices or built in protections that are already part of iOS.
Industry commentators emphasize that iPhone users have a robust set of native defenses designed to protect personal data. These include Face ID authentication, additional protections in the Safari browser, strict App Store review policies, and the option to enable two factor authentication on accounts. These features work together to reduce the impact of phishing attempts and unauthorized access, without requiring routine reboots as a primary defense.
In June there was renewed attention on the Prime Minister of Australia urging iPhone owners to shut down devices regularly to guard against spyware installed remotely by hackers. While this practice may incidentally disrupt active threats, security specialists argue that relying on reboot as the main strategy is misguided and could lead users to underestimate stronger protections already available in the devices they use every day. A more effective approach involves enabling built in security features, keeping software up to date, and following best practices for data privacy and account security, say experts.
Security researchers and tech journalists point to practical steps that help safeguard devices beyond rebooting. Keeping iOS updated ensures security patches are applied, using unique and strong passcodes, enabling Face ID or Touch ID, and turning on two factor authentication across critical services. Additionally, reviewing app permissions, limiting data sharing, and monitoring for unusual activity can substantially reduce risk. These recommendations align with efforts by device manufacturers to promote safer mobile use while avoiding the impression that intermittent restarts are a cure-all.
Overall, while a brief shutdown can disrupt certain types of spyware activity, it should not be viewed as a universal shield. Canadian and American users looking to protect their devices should rely on a layered security approach, combining built in protections with smart user practices. The takeaway is clear: rebooting can be a compliment to security, not its replacement, and a thoughtful, ongoing security routine yields better protection against modern threats, according to the latest reporting and expert analyses.