Our friends tell us that there's this anti-phubbing website called stopphubbing.com that encourages people to do something against the massive spread of phubbing (phone + snubbing). It all sounds funny but according to Carly Chynoweth, a Guardian Professional, phubbing isn't just anti-social but "leads to a big increase in the carbon footprint of the digital economy." Think about it, every time someone checks their phone instead of engaging in a real conversation with a friend or a date or an acquaintance, energy is consumed – energy, which is actually greater than the amount you use for charging your device. Besides, it's incredibly rude and not at all excusable even if everyone else seems to be doing it. Remember of a person's lack of manners cannot be blamed on a smartphone or a tablet or any other newfangled gadget that lulls you into thinking that it's worth your attention, 100 percent of the time. As some wise old chap put it, "Manners cost nothing." And you know what else costs nada? These five tech etiquette tips that you should try to remember at all times!

#1 Don't be a screen smearer.

As smartphone owners, we have learned to live with the smears and smudges that dare mar the perfection of our devices. After all, it only takes a good microfiber cloth—and if you don't have a cleaning solution—just a bit of water to take care of the job. Of course, it goes without saying that if you borrow a friend's phone or tablet, you need to make sure that you return it smear- and smudge-free even if you got it in a none-too-pristine condition. Just think of it as a neighborly gesture, which we're quite sure your friend will appreciate. Likewise, if you are admiring someone else's laptop display or monitor, it's best to do so without leaving your fingerprints on their screens. Now, if you can't help yourself, at the very least make sure your fingers are clean or have an extra microfiber cloth that you can whip out for cases like this.

#2 Mind your tone when e-mailing, texting or chatting.

It's hard to correctly interpret the tone of an e-mail, instant message or SMS because the person you are communicating with cannot see your facial expression and body language, and obviously, because text has no intonation. Even if you're talking to someone who knows you well, like a family member or close friend, it pays to re-read whatever you are sending – whether it's an e-mail, IM or text just to be sure that you don't inadvertently offend him or her. There is a possibility that you might come off as sarcastic or even condescending even though you are just trying to explain something. Of course, you can always call or speak to someone personally to make sure that you convey exactly what you want to say. That's what we would do if there's even a tiny possibility that our message will be misinterpreted in any way.

#3 Think twice, thrice, or more before you post a comment.

If you have business and/or personal blogs and social media accounts, there's always the possibility of receiving negative comments, which don't necessarily come just from trolls. The easiest way to defuse an inappropriate or unruly comment is to remove it. But you don't have to be delete-happy because a positive and thoughtful response to a negative review or comment will help with damage control. Sometimes, you don't even have to be the first to respond because your friends and followers will come to your defense and share positive feedback. If there is a genuine complaint, ask the person to message you privately. If diplomacy fails and the person who commented has become more aggressive and/or offensive, you always have to option to block and report.

#4 Know your gadget-restricted zones.

You already know that texting and driving don't mix but mobile devices should be off limits not just behind the wheel. There are other places that are supposed to be gadget-restricted zones yet many still disregard the unwritten rule and continue calling, surfing and texting like there's no one else around. Don't be an offender. Avoid using your phone while in class or at work (especially if you're with clients or in a meeting with your boss). Turn off your business phone or at least put it in silent when you're at a funeral, weekly service, wedding or any solemn occasion. The same goes if you're watching a movie, play, or a live game or match. Last but definitely not the least, give your date, family or friends your full attention when you're with them. Your gadgets won't miss you but you will surely miss your loved ones if they decide to leave you alone because of your lack of tech etiquette.