Have you ever wondered how much time you actually spend online each day? According to a recent survey commissioned by Optimum, the average U.S. adult spends more than 10 hours a day online.
That’s almost half of the day spent staring at a screen. So what exactly are we doing online all this time? The breakdown is quite revealing and perhaps a bit concerning.
Streaming and scrolling dominate our days
The survey of 2,000 U.S. adults with home Internet shows that Americans spend nearly 5.4 hours a day browsing the web, reading emails, gaming, working, and paying bills. Another 5 hours is dedicated to streaming shows or movies.
While TV remains the top choice for streaming content, mobile phones, laptops, desktops, and tablets also play a significant role.
What Americans really use the internet for
Aside from streaming, the internet serves as a central hub for multitasking. People use it for browsing websites, paying bills, scrolling through social media, shopping online, completing work tasks, and even school work.
Most users access the internet from multiple devices, including mobile phones, computers, and even TVs.
What this means for you
Spending over 10 hours online daily can have implications on your mental focus, posture, sleep, and social habits. It also reflects the significant role technology plays in shaping your daily life.
How to protect your time online
If you’re spending a large chunk of your day online, it’s important to prioritize your information and privacy. Here are some simple steps to help you stay safer online:
1. Use strong, unique passwords
Avoid reusing passwords and consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
2. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Enable this extra layer of security on websites that offer it.
3. Update software regularly
Install security patches promptly to close known vulnerabilities.
4. Limit public Wi-Fi use
Avoid sensitive activities on public networks unless using a secure VPN.
5. Use privacy tools and extensions
Install browser extensions that block trackers, ads, and fingerprinting.
6. Review privacy settings on apps and devices
Check and adjust what information your apps are collecting about you.
7. Use a personal data removal service
Consider using a service to remove your personal information from data broker sites.
8. Install strong antivirus software
Protect your devices from threats with reliable antivirus software.
Kurt’s key takeaways
The survey results shed light on the significant amount of time we spend online. It’s essential to assess whether we are in control of our screen time or if it’s controlling us.
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