Smartphone safety myths debunked in Slovakia

A TikTok trend circulating in Slovakia advises users to place overheated smartphones in a refrigerator or freezer to cool them quickly. Experts warn that the sudden temperature change can cause condensation inside the device, leading to short‑circuits or permanent damage to components such as the display, seals and internal circuitry. Manufacturers including Apple and Google recommend safer cooling methods: move the phone to shade, close unnecessary apps, disconnect it from the charger and keep it in its case to allow gradual heat dissipation.

Separate research also clarifies that smartphones do not attract lightning. Modern phones lack external metal antennas and emit radio waves too weak to influence a lightning strike’s path. The real danger during thunderstorms is being outdoors in open areas. Experts advise seeking shelter in a building or a car and avoiding the use of phones only because they might distract from safety measures.