Khaberni - If you suddenly feel that your phone is not functioning normally, such as it overheating without a clear reason, its battery draining faster than usual, or apps appearing that you don’t remember downloading, it might be due to the presence of malware.
Smartphones have increasingly become a target for cyberattacks, as malicious software seeks to steal personal data, deplete credit, or disrupt device performance, according to "Thomas Guide".
Before resorting to downloading antivirus applications or paying any fees, technology experts indicate that most phone viruses can be removed through simple and free steps that only take a few minutes. Although Android phones are more susceptible due to their open-source nature, iPhones are not immune to risks.
Signs of a virus
Before starting the treatment steps, it is first advised to ensure that the problem is indeed caused by malware, as not all performance issues mean a virus. Among the prominent warning signs are:
Unusual battery drainage: If the phone loses 30 to 40% of its charge in one hour with limited use, there might be software running in the background without your knowledge.
Heating of the phone without intensive use: An increase in the phone’s temperature while idle or when performing simple tasks like messaging may indicate abnormal activity.
Appearance of unknown apps: Many malicious software disguise themselves as apps with generic names or icons.
Unexpected fees or data consumption: Some viruses send paid messages or communicate with external servers, affecting the bill.
Excessive pop-up windows: The appearance of pop-up ads even when the browser is closed is a clear indicator of the presence of malicious adware.
Frequent app crashes: Frequent malfunctions may be the result of malicious software interfering with the operating system.
1- Clear browser data and cache
Not all malicious software establish themselves as apps; often, the issue starts from the browser, where malicious sites or ads store data that leads to pop-ups or fake virus warnings.
On Android phones: Open settings, then go to applications, select the browser (like Chrome or Firefox), press storage then clear cache and clear data, and it’s preferable to repeat the step for every browser used.
On iPhone devices: Go to settings, then clear history and website data, Safari, and it’s also recommended to check the downloads folder and delete any unknown files, especially APK files on Android, as they are a common method for the infiltration of malicious software outside the official app store.
2- Run the phone in safe mode and delete suspicious apps
If the previous step does not resolve the issue, the cause might be a malicious app. On Android devices, you can restart the phone in safe mode, which deactivates all third-party apps and runs only the core system. If the symptoms disappear while the phone is in this mode, this is a clear sign of a malicious app, and you should review the app list and delete any unknown software, then restart the phone normally.
On iPhone devices, although there is no traditional safe mode, installing the latest iOS update closes security loopholes exploited by malicious software. Afterwards, you can review storage capacity and delete unfamiliar apps, and also check for any profiles or VPN networks not installed by the user himself.
3 - Factory reset as a last resort
If the issue persists despite all previous steps, a factory reset becomes the last and most effective solution. This procedure restores the phone to its original state and eliminates any deeply ingrained malicious software. Before performing a reset, it is advised to save a backup of essential data such as photos and contacts, while avoiding restoring apps, to prevent the virus from returning. After the reset, set up the phone as a new device, and manually download apps only from official stores, and monitor any abnormal behavior to ensure the phone’s security.
Although a factory reset is a radical step, it often achieves the desired result, restoring the phone’s normal performance and securing it against ongoing threats, making smart devices safer and more reliable for daily use.
