Signs of internet addiction ::: Spend a lot of time alone with their computer or smartphone on a regular basis? Become defensive when you confront them with their behavior? Seem either unaware of what they have been doing, or attempt to deny it? Prefer spending time with their device or on the Internet rather than with other people? Lose interest in other, previously important activities, e.g., friends, sports, work, hobbies, exercise, etc.? Appear to be more socially isolated, moody or irritable? Seem to be establishing “a second life, ” with new and different friends whom they met online? Spend greater amounts of time online, and attempt to cover or “minimize” the screen or hide the phone when you come in the room. Exhibit signs that their work or school performance is suffering, e.g., they were fired, grades are slipping, or their household responsibilities are neglected. Talk about their time on the computer incessantly, and seem to draw meaning in their life from this activity. Exhibit signs that their work or school performance is suffering; perhaps they were fired, grades are slipping or their household responsibilities are neglected. Talk about their time on the computer incessantly and seem to draw meaning in their life from this activity. Have legal problems as a result of their Internet behavior, e.g., the loss of child custody, divorce , or sexual harassment charges at work due to downloading pornography, etc.