Disabling or uninstalling unnecessary applications reduces potential vulnerabilities, since these apps might have unpatched security issues or could possibly be exploited by malicious actors. Leaving non-essential apps on the device can open up avenues for attack even if not used, as they may still operate in the background or have network access. Disabling non-required services ensures they do not use system resources or pose additional risk. Although encrypting data on the device and adding a device password are important security measures, they do not address the direct risk introduced by the presence of these unnecessary applications.