How you can remove malware from your phone
Is Your Phone Acting Strange Lately? Learn How to Remove Malware from Your Android Device
If your phone has been acting strangely with apps crashing, overheating, and annoying pop-up ads so you might have malicious apps causing the trouble. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting rid of malware on your phone to keep your data and device safe.
Understanding Cybersecurity Threats
Cybersecurity threats can put your sensitive data, money, and safety at risk. Hackers are always on the lookout for security flaws to exploit and gain access to your private information. In this article, we’ll discuss the major types of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and how you can protect yourself from them.
Is a Virus the Same as Malware?
First things first, let’s clarify the difference between a virus and malware. Malware is a broad term encompassing various types of malicious software, including viruses, trojans, worms, rootkits, ransomware, and adware. Let’s break down these terms further.
What is a Virus?
A virus is a specific type of malware created by hackers. It’s designed to replicate itself and spread from one host to another. Viruses infiltrate computers or smartphones with the intention of stealing information, tracking your online activities, or causing damage to your device.
What is Malware?
Malware, on the other hand, is a malicious application that aims to infiltrate a device and perform nefarious tasks. These tasks may include recording your keystrokes, taking screenshots, or gaining unauthorized control over your device. Malware comes in various forms like as worms, trojans, viruses, ransomware, adware, and spyware.
Signs of Malware on Your Phone
Here are some indicators that your phone may be infected with malware:
Rapid Battery Drain and Overheating:
If your phone’s battery is depleting quickly or your device is overheating so it could be a sign of malware running in the background. However, it might also be due to an aging battery.
Increased Data Usage:
Malicious apps running in the background can consume your data allowance. Having multiple apps open simultaneously can also contribute to higher data usage.
Annoying Pop-Up Ads:
If you’re encountering pop-up ads even when your browser is closed then you may have adware on your phone.
App Crashes:
Frequent and unexplained app crashes can be a symptom of a virus or malware.
Unexpected Phone Bill Increase:
If your phone bill suddenly spikes and you can’t account for the additional charges then it might be due to a virus. Some viruses like trojans can send costly text messages without your knowledge.
Unfamiliar Apps:
If you notice apps on your device that you don’t remember downloading be cautious as they could be signs of a virus.
How to Remove Malware from Your Phone
Follow these steps to remove malware from your Android phone:
Identify Suspicious Apps and Delete Them:
Check your installed apps for any unfamiliar or suspicious ones. Go to “Settings” then “Manage apps” then notifications” and finally, “Downloaded apps” or “Installed apps.” If you don’t recognize an app or haven’t used it so delete it. If you’re uncertain about an app you can look it up online. To uninstall, click on the app and select “Uninstall.” If you can’t find the “Uninstall” button then you need to remove the app’s administrative rights which we’ll explain in the next step.
Address Vulnerable APIs:
Application programming interfaces (APIs) are communication systems between different programs. Ensuring the security of these APIs is crucial as poorly configured or insecure APIs can be exploited by hackers for data theft or attacks against other applications.
Remove Administrator Access:
If you can’t uninstall an app manually then it may have administrator access to your phone. To change this, go to “Settings” then “Security” and look for something like “Device Administrators.” Check if any unfamiliar admin apps are listed and remove their administrator access. You should then be able to uninstall the app yourself.
You can help safeguard your Android phone against malware and keep your data secure by following these steps.
How to Keep Malware Away from Your Phone
Worried about malware infecting your phone? Here are some simple steps to make sure your phone stays safe:
Stick to Trusted App Sources:
When you download apps make sure to get them from reliable sources. Even on the official Google Play store check for high ratings and good reviews to ensure the app is safe to use.
Use Strong Passwords:
Create strong passwords with at least ten characters, mixing in numbers, letters, and special characters. The stronger your password, the harder it is for hackers to crack it. If remembering complex passwords is a challenge consider using a password manager.
Consider a VPN for your Phone:
A VPN not only protects your online connection but can also provide extra security features. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Lite can block dangerous websites and get rid of annoying pop-up ads which adds an extra layer of security.
Stay Informed about New Threats:
It’s easier to protect yourself online when you’re aware of the latest threats. Keep up with news about hacks, malware, and online exploits to stay informed and better protect your phone. Remember, ignorance can put you at risk.
Be Cautious with Ads:
If you encounter strange pop-ups and ads don’t click on them. These ads might hide malware and clicking on them could lead to trouble.
You can help keep your phone safe and free from malware by following these steps.
