Are you having a doubt that your smartphone has been hacked or is being used by remote hackers for malevolent scams?
If so, then watch out for these abnormal behavioral signs to know whether the device has been hacked.
- When apps are taking longer time to open than usual, it can be a sign that the device has been hacked. However, if the phone is crashing randomly, it can also mean that the device is lacking security updates.
- Excessive battery drain can also be a sign of a device hack. As usual, malware working in the background can trigger such a situation. Thus, better you keep a watch on the battery consumption.
- Increasing data mobile consumption needs your immediate attention, as malware and malicious infections can lead to excessive data consumption
- Malware infections can lead to increased data usage and subscription to premium services without the user’s consent
- Annoying pop-ups can also mean that the device has been infected with malicious apps. Better to open all the apps and delete those that aren’t needed anymore.
- Smartphone overheating can also be a sign of a device hack
If anyone is experiencing the above-said signs, then better follow the below steps to stay out of trouble-
1.) Use a reliable anti-virus and scan the phone for infections. It will help in not only detecting the virus, but will also help remove it on a permanent note.
Avast, AVG, BitDefender, and McAfee are a few of the reliable and free anti-malware solutions
2.) In an Android device, always clear the phone’s storage and cache; and the browsing history and website data in an iOS device
3.) Restart your phone in safe mode and opt for a factory reset. This will not only help bring back the phone to fresh when assembled in the factory, but will also delete any malicious apps or malware downloaded onto the phone. However, the only negative point in this step is that you will lose all your data, including messages, contacts, images, videos, and documents.
Stay out of trouble proactively
a.) To defend a smartphone against future viruses and other security risks, avoid clicking on unknown website links and pop-ups.
b.) Avoid clicking on links sent in text messages from unknown senders, emails, and social media posts.
c.) Always install applications from authorized app stores such as Google Play and Apple App Store.
d.) Never go for a phone jailbreak.
e.) Check what permissions are being granted to apps and are trustworthy enough. It can be found by going through their reviews.
f.) Back up data on a regular note.
g.) Always keep the device OS updated with security updates from time to time.
h.) Monitor the financial transactions that are taking place via phone.
