With the rise in mobile malware, it’s important for smartphone users to know how to detect if their devices have been infected. Luckily, there are signs you can look for to determine if malware has made its way onto your phone.
What is Mobile Malware?
Mobile malware refers to malicious software programs designed to infect smartphones and tablets. These programs are created by cybercriminals looking to steal personal information, monitor activity, or take control of devices.
Some common types of mobile malware include:
- Spyware – Tracks your activity and sends info back to attackers
- Trojans – Malicious apps that pose as legitimate ones
- Ransomware – Encrypts data until a ransom is paid
- Banking Trojans – Steals banking credentials and other sensitive information
This malware typically finds its way onto devices when users download shady apps, click suspicious links, or visit compromised websites. Once installed, it can be tricky to detect and remove.
1. Slow or Unstable Performance
One of the first signs your phone may have malware is if it starts exhibiting sluggish or unstable performance. Some things to look out for include:
- Apps crashing or freezing unexpectedly
- Difficulty connecting to WiFi and cellular data
- Overheating even when not in heavy use
- Slow response times and lag, especially when launching apps
- Fast battery drain, requiring more frequent charging
Malware strains system resources, which can lead to slowdowns and performance issues. If your phone starts lagging, crashing, or acting up out of the blue, it could point to a malware infection.
2. Mysterious Pop-Ups
Unexpected pop-up windows are another red flag. Legitimate apps and sites will generally not bombard you with pop-ups. Things to watch for include:
- Pop-up ads for unfamiliar apps or products
- Messages claiming your system is infected
- “Warning” pop-ups urging you to download anti-virus apps
- Fake update notifications
- Alerts that mimic your phone’s built-in notifications
Malware often generates pop-up notifications to scare or trick users. If you notice an uptick in strange pop-ups, your device may harbor an infection.
3. Suspicious Activity
In addition to performance issues and pop-ups, keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviors such as:
- Apps opening on their own
- Settings changing without your knowledge
- Hearing odd clicking or buzzing from the phone
- Problems with Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity
- Unknown files appearing on your device
These could all be signs of malware tampering with your system. Rogue apps and processes running in the background can trigger unusual activity.
4. High Data Usage
Notice your monthly data usage unexpectedly shooting up? Malware could be the culprit. Some signs your data is being siphoned include:
- Reaching or exceeding your data limits, resulting in throttled speeds
- Apps using large amounts of background data without your knowledge
- Mobile hotspot activating on its own and connecting devices
- Sluggish speeds even on WiFi networks
Malicious apps can rack up data charges by downloading files, syncing information, and transmitting your personal information. Abnormal data consumption warrants further inspection.
5. Overheating
As mentioned earlier, frequent overheating can be a red flag. Malware strains the CPU, RAM, battery, and other phone components. Some additional overheating signs include:
- Phone feels hot to the touch, especially at the top/center
- Apps freezing or crashing due to heat
- Dimming/darkening of the screen
- Physical swelling or deformation of the battery
- System warnings about temperature and CPU load
Severe overheating can damage phones and pose safety risks. Sudden temperature spikes point to intensive background processes that could be tied to malware.
6. High Battery Drain
Rapid battery depletion can also indicate malware. Aside from quick draining, look for:
- Battery lasting much less between charges
- Charging taking longer than usual
- System warnings about high battery usage
- Apps like Facebook or email using excessive battery
Malware can consume battery power quickly by overusing device components. If your phone starts dying more quickly for no clear reason, it may mean malware is running rampant.
7. Unknown Apps
Carefully check all installed apps on your device. Malware often disguises itself as a legitimate application. Be wary of:
- Apps you don’t remember downloading
- Generic-sounding app names
- Apps asking for unnecessary permissions
- Outdated app versions
Safest bet is to uninstall any apps that look fishy or unfamiliar. This removes potential malware lurking on your device.
8. Strange Network Activity
Malware can tamper with your phone’s internet connectivity. Some network anomalies that should raise flags are:
- WiFi disconnecting frequently
- Weak WiFi signals and slow speeds
- Difficulty reconnecting to known networks
- Browser frequently redirecting you to strange websites
Disruptions to WiFi and cellular data can indicate data exfiltration or remote server communication by malware. Make note of any unusual network behavior.
9. Unauthorized Charges
Financial theft is a common goal of mobile malware. Keep an eye out for:
- Unapproved charges on your phone bill or credit card statements
- New bank or PayPal accounts you didn’t open
- Missing credits from gift cards or loyalty programs
- Cryptocurrency withdrawals you don’t recognize
Malware targets credit cards, accounts, and wallets stored on your device. Sudden fraudulent charges are a surefire sign of compromise.
10. Sluggish Texting and Calling
Interference with basic functions like calls and messaging can occur too. Signs include:
- Delayed receipt of text messages
- Text messages out of order
- Missed call notifications delayed
- Choppy call quality and static
- Muted microphone during calls
Call and text data can be intercepted or blocked by spyware. Any disruption to these basic functions is suspicious.
11. Strange Noises
Less common but possible are strange noises stemming from malware infection. This can include:
- Odd clicking, buzzing, or grinding from inside the phone
- High-pitched squealing from phone speaker
- Music or voices when phone is sleeping
- Notification sounds for nonexistent apps
Unusual sounds might indicate spyware capturing audio or signify malware processes overtaxing components. Err on the side of caution if you hear anything bizarre.
12. Hot Phone When Off
Finally, pay attention to physical symptoms. If your phone feels warm or hot to the touch even when powered off, this typically means background system processes are running.
Malware can activate services that continue working even when the device is off. Unnatural warmth is a giveaway something is wrong.
Scan for Malware
If your phone is exhibiting any of the symptoms described above, it’s time to act. Start by scanning your device using reputable antivirus apps like Malwarebytes and AVG.
These can detect and remove infections from most common malware strains. Schedule periodic scans going forward to catch any future malware before it takes hold.
Factory Reset
For serious infections, a factory reset may be necessary. This will wipe your device clean and remove deeply embedded malware not caught by antivirus scans.
Before resetting, be sure to backup critical data. You’ll need to reinstall apps and restore preferences afterward. This gives you peace of mind your system is malware-free.
Avoid Suspicious Apps and Links
Practice caution moving forward to keep malware off your phone:
- Only install apps from trusted sources like Google Play
- Beware sideloading apps from outside app stores
- Research unfamiliar apps before downloading
- Don’t open links in emails, texts, or ads
- Watch for fake coupon and gift offers
- Don’t jailbreak or root your device
Healthy skepticism goes a long way in keeping malware away. Think twice before downloading anything unfamiliar or tapping any suspicious links.
Use Antivirus Apps
Lastly, use third-party antivirus apps for ongoing protection. Options like Norton Mobile Security and McAfee Mobile Security provide real-time scanning and threat detection.
These can catch malware downloaded through the web browser, text messages, email attachments and more. Run regular scans in addition to passive monitoring for comprehensive defense.
Conclusion
Smartphones are prone to malware just like computers. However, there are clear warning signs of infection you can watch for. Being vigilant for performance issues, strange activity, and suspicious apps gives you a head start in detecting and removing malware.
Combine this awareness with antivirus software and caution when downloading apps or content. With some due diligence, you can keep your phone free of malware and the headaches that come with it.