September Reset Guide: Digital Declutter for High-Value Lifestyles
Author: Marcelina Horsefield
As the season shifts and the pace of life steadies, September presents a natural opportunity for a reset. It's an ideal moment to revisit your priorities - and your digital life is a great place to start. A curated digital environment protects your privacy and preserves peace of mind.
Digital baggage builds up quietly. Multiply that across your family devices, and the volume can be significant.
Old accounts, unused devices and data stored in forgotten corners of the internet isn’t just messy, it can leave you exposed to risk:
Cyber threats caused by outdated software or forgotten logins
Data leaks through unsecured cloud storage or shared documents
Reputation damage from old content that no longer reflects your current image
A little digital decluttering now can go a long way in keeping you safe.
Smart September: Your Digital Declutter Checklist
Ready to clean up your digital space? Here are five simple tips to help you get started.
1. Begin with a Digital Audit
Make a list of all your devices, accounts, cloud services, and digital assets. A good way to uncover forgotten accounts is by checking browser bookmarks, favourites, and password managers. These often hold clues to old services you may no longer use but still pose a security risk. Be sure to include family members or staff where relevant.
2. Remove What You No Longer Need
Delete unused accounts, uninstall unnecessary apps, and archive or securely erase old files.
3. Secure What Matters Most
Review your passwords, and update ones that are weak, reused, or may have been compromised. Enable multi-factor authentication, and ensure sensitive data is encrypted and backed up.
4. Review Your Privacy Settings
Revisit social media, cloud platforms, and communication tools to make sure your settings reflect your current needs and comfort levels. Not sure where to start? Here are a few guides to help you update settings on popular platforms:
5. Set A Regular Review Schedule
Just like financial or legal check-ins, schedule a quarterly review of your digital hygiene to stay ahead of potential risks.
The Benefits of a Digital Declutter
Decluttering your digital life isn’t just about tidying up - it’s an intentional move toward reclaiming control in an increasingly connected world. 85% of global adults want to do more to protect their online privacy, yet only 56% feel in control of their personal data. For high-value individuals with complex digital footprints, spanning devices, platforms, and even jurisdictions, a well-managed digital environment offers more than convenience. It provides clarity, confidence, and security. When your digital space is intentionally organised, you’ll see:
Sharper Security
By eliminating outdated apps, unused accounts, and unnecessary data, you reduce your digital attack surface. Fewer entry points mean fewer vulnerabilities - a critical advantage when your personal and financial information may be a high-value target for criminals.
Elevated Privacy
Every file stored, subscription maintained, or account left open is a potential leak of personal data. A thoughtful digital declutter means your information remains confidential, reducing exposure and supporting a lifestyle that values discretion and privacy.
Smarter Performance
An organised digital ecosystem means your devices run faster, your workflows are smoother, and your time is no longer wasted managing digital noise. Streamlined tech translates to real-world gains. Whether you’re at home, or travelling for work or pleasure, efficiency becomes effortless.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps most importantly, a digital reset brings a sense of control. Knowing your online presence is intentional, secure, and aligned with your values reduces mental clutter and increases confidence in your day-to-day digital interactions.
Need Help?
If your digital estate is more complex, or you need a more holistic review, coc00n can support your requirements. We specialise in discreet, high-touch cyber security services tailored to you that will strengthen and future-proof your digital presence.
About the author
Marcelina Horsefield is a Cyber Security Advisor at coc00n, where she helps public figures navigate digital security with confidence. With over a decade of experience in legal operations, Marcelina focuses on a thoughtful, grounded approach to risk, translating today’s complex digital landscape into a clear, manageable path.