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How to Remove Viruses from Your Phone?

by sophiajames

Your phone’s extensive use makes it susceptible to viruses and malware, but several effective methods can restore its security and performance. You can start by installing a trusted security app and running a full device scan. If suspicious apps are found, manually uninstall them. Then, clear cache and data, update your operating system and apps and consider a factory reset.

Ways to Remove Viruses from Your Cell Phone

A virus is a type of malware that can infect your cell phone. It affects its functionality by draining the battery life and accessing personal information. 

Solution 1: Install a Trusted Cell Phone Security App

First, download a trusted antivirus from a reliable source. These applications will scan your phone for malicious software and help remove it. Just make sure you choose an app with good reviews to avoid more security threats.

After installation, scan your device. The app will identify and isolate the malicious files or apps. Follow the app’s instructions to delete these threats.

Solution 2: Manually Remove Suspicious Apps

If you notice unfamiliar apps that the security scan didn’t flag, you can remove them manually:

  • Navigate to your device’s settings.
  • Access the ‘Apps’ or ‘Application Manager’ section.
  • Review the list of unfamiliar or suspicious apps.
  • Select the app and choose ‘Uninstall.’

Some apps may have administrator privileges if the ‘Uninstall’ option is unavailable. To revoke these:

  • Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Security’ > ‘Device Administrators.’
  • Select the app’s administrator rights.
  • Return to the app list and uninstall the app.

Solution 3: Clear Cache and Data

Malware may be hiding in your cached data. Clearing your cache can help remove the malicious files:

  • Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Storage’ > ‘Cached Data.’
  • Confirm to clear cached data.
  • For individual apps:
  • In ‘Settings,’ select ‘Apps.’
  • Choose the specific app.
  • Tap ‘Storage’ > ‘Clear Cache’ and ‘Clear Data.’

Solution 4: Update Your Operating System and Apps

Keep your operating system and apps updated with the latest security patches. 

  • Navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘Software Update.’
  • Check for and install any available updates.

Solution 5: Restart in Safe Mode

Safe Mode turns off third-party apps, allowing you to identify if a malicious app causes an issue:

  • Press and hold the power button.
  • Tap and hold ‘Power Off’ until the ‘Reboot to Safe Mode’ option appears.
  • Confirm to restart in Safe Mode.

If your phone functions normally in Safe Mode, it indicates a third-party app may be causing the issue. Uninstall recently added apps that may be causing the problem.

Solution 6: Perform a Factory Reset

A factory reset can remove persistent malware if the above solutions fail. This action will erase all data on your device, so back up important information beforehand:

  • Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘Reset’ > ‘Factory Data Reset.’
  • Confirm and proceed with the reset.

After resetting, only restore data from backups created before the infection occurred.

Signs Your Phone May Be Infected

Early detection of malware infection can prevent the damage. The common signs are:

  • Decreased Performance: Slow performance and rapid battery drain may indicate malware is running in the background. 
  • Unexpected Pop-ups: Repeated and annoying advertisements or pop-ups may suggest adware infections.
  • Unfamiliar Apps: Unknown applications installed on your device may result from unauthorized access or malicious installation.
  • Overheating: Overheating may occur due to malware continuously running high-resource tasks.

Preventive Measures You Should Take

Here are some preventive measures to safeguard your phone.

  • Download Apps Only from Trusted Sources: Only download apps from official stores like Google Play. 
  • Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: Do not click on links you are not familiar with or download given attachments from unknown persons.
  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Your passwords must be unique and strong by combining uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Enable two-factor authentication to enhance your phone’s security.
  • Activate Google Play Protect: This feature checks applications for viruses and confirms that applications downloaded from the Play Store are safe. To enable Google Play Protect, go to the Google Play Store app, select your profile icon, tap “Play Protect,” and enable it.

Conclusion

You can protect your phone from viruses by implementing the recommended phone repair solutions. Installing a trusted security app, running full scans, and being watchful about suspicious apps will keep your device safe. Updating software regularly, clearing cache, and taking advantage of features like Google Play Protect add extra layers of security. Lastly, being cautious when downloading apps from trusted sources and using strong passwords will prevent future infections. You can protect your phone and prevent future malware infections by installing security apps, regularly updating software, and practicing safe browsing habits.

 

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