In the view of cybersecurity experts, mobile devices have been designed to capture attention in more ways than each individual can realize, resulting in an unhealthy attachment not only for mental balance but also for the confidentiality and security of personal data.

According to an analysis by Imogen Byers, part of the ESET team, at present, there are approximately seven billion smartphones worldwide, equivalent to about 85% of the global population of eight billion people.

"With the abundance of applications on the market, these small devices can simplify the stress of daily life, eliminate boredom and keep you constantly connected. Nowadays, you can even experience an entire romantic relationship on your phone using AI. Mobile games mean you can have fun on long trips or solo delegations with virtual universes, sophisticated puzzles and rewards to match. Another point of interest is fitness apps, which can help you achieve your #newyearnewme goals. With their help, you can track your progress, discover new workouts and gain motivation on those days when going for a run doesn't seem so appealing. The list is truly endless... And that's part of the problem (...) But what we may not realize is that these apps have specific features specially designed to make us come back for even more benefits. Considering that an individual spends, on average, over 3 hours on their smartphone every day, using online apps can outweigh the benefits and can turn into an addiction", notes the cited source.

Another element that attracts users to mobile devices is represented by the infinite streams of content. Thus, what initially was just a "quick check" to see what's happening in one's own digital sphere has subsequently turned into an avalanche of content, with other news, posts and captivating videos automatically appearing as the feed from favorite apps is scrolled.

"Using unique algorithms that ensure what you see is similar to the posts and content you've interacted with before, it's no wonder you can't resist. An example of this is the time spent on the TikTok platform, with statistics showing that an individual spends an average of 90 minutes per day on the app", explains the ESET specialist.

Moreover, in the landscape of technology addiction, instant gratification arises when an online post receives as many "likes" and "comments" as possible.

"And precisely this feeling urges you to want more. This social validation triggers the brain's reward system, a complex network that stimulates certain behaviors through the release of dopamine (the pleasure hormone). Additionally, you can obtain this dopamine release from other things, such as eating chocolate or online shopping for your favorite products, which is why you might end up consuming the entire box of chocolates or emptying your bank account", mentions the specialized material.

Another situation that can lead to the emergence of nomophobia is constant notifications and the feeling of escaping from everyday stress, which further deepens the viewer's immersion in the online world.

Nomophobia can affect the health and general well-being of the addicted individual, and the problems encountered include: lack of quality sleep, social isolation and reduced concentration periods.

"Let's not forget: it's not at all exaggerated to say that an unhealthy attachment to technology can ultimately lead you to neglect your personal security and privacy, to the point where you may engage in high-risk online behaviors. For starters, if you're tired and find it difficult to concentrate, chances are you're more likely not to read messages carefully and click on an apparently legitimate but malicious link that ends up in your email inbox. Additionally, you might let your guard down when using free Wi-Fi networks, without paying attention to appropriate precautionary measures or reusing the same passwords for multiple online accounts. Moreover, children and teenagers are even more vulnerable to the dangers of the online world, so if you're a parent, you may want to ensure that your own behavior sets a good example for healthy technology use. In addition to discussing healthy digital habits with your children, you can use ESET Parental Control to help set limits that allow children to make the most of connectivity in a safe and controlled manner", specifies Imogen Byers.

ESET was founded in 1992 in Bratislava (Slovakia) and ranks among the top companies providing malware detection and content analysis services, operating in over 180 countries.