I believe a major reason why smartphones are “smart” is that they start showing different signs when a virus attacks them. But most people rarely pay any attention to those telltale signs. As a result, their smartphones get hacked, or they lose their precious data.
Cybercriminals have invented sophisticated ways to target our electronic devices, especially smartphones, and the data stored on them. However, by acting quickly, you can counter those threats and keep your devices and data out of danger.
Here, I’ll share those telltale signs, but before that, why don’t I start by explaining a few ways to secure your smartphone from viruses?
Ways To Secure Your Smartphone From Viruses
There are plenty of ways to scare off viruses from entering your smartphone, such as;
Use A Secure Internet Connection
Most viruses enter our devices via the internet. Websites we visit, or links we click on, may contain malicious content. And it’s a must that you use a secure connection to stop viruses from entering your smartphone.
Luckily, there are numerous internet service providers (ISPs) that offer advanced internet security. For instance, the ISP I’m subscribed to, Cox, offers an advanced security feature with the service that protects my home connection and wards off viruses and malware. Plus, the ever-reliable Cox customer service is available 24/7 to resolve my queries.
So, ensure that you always connect to a secure connection, one that takes solid measures to provide a secure network connection for your devices.
Connect To A VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) can be a handy tool for encrypting your device’s data. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and one of its secure servers. All the incoming and outgoing data moves through this encrypted tunnel and then heads to its location.
Additionally, it also alters your device’s IP address and assigns it a fake one. By doing so, bad actors fail to pinpoint and target your device on the internet.
5 Signs Of Smartphone Virus To Watch Out For
Our smartphones show some apparent signs when they’re infected by a virus, such as:
Your Smartphone Consumes More Data
We all have a vague idea of how much data we use on our smartphones every month. However, if your data consumption spikes without any reason, then it’s a major sign that your smartphone is infected with a virus.
When a virus or malware stealthily enters our device, it starts consuming data. A virus likely runs in the background and consumes data to transfer our information out of the device.
New Apps Are Installed On Your Smartphone
Most people remember when they install an application on their smartphone. Sometimes, we accidentally install an app or download one that we never end up using and forget that it’s even there.
However, it might happen once in a blue moon. But if you start noticing it frequently, then it’s neither you nor your smartphone that’s installing random apps; it’s the virus that has already crept inside your smartphone.
Your Smartphone’s Battery Drains Quickly
Some battery issues might erupt if you’ve used your smartphone for long enough. However, if your smartphone is relatively new, and you see no reason why its battery drains so quickly, then it might be another sign that a virus has attacked it.
Besides consuming data, viruses and malware also consume battery. As malicious content runs in the background, it consumes battery like any other application. Our smartphones, on the other hand, might not be able to distinguish between a virus and an app, and keep offering the required power to viruses so they can operate smoothly.
The Frequency Of Ads Increases
We all see ads in online games, applications, and on websites. However, you might start seeing more ads than usual when a virus targets your smartphone.
Bad actors use adware, where they hide or embed malicious code inside an ad. And, even if you accidentally click on it, more viruses might enter your device. So, if you feel that the ads’ frequency has increased on your smartphone, then consider it a sign that a virus has already entered your device.
Your Smartphone Gets Hot
Our smartphones can feel hot on so many occasions. For instance, if you’re using it while charging, its temperature might rise. Or, it can also happen when you open too many windows simultaneously, or play an online game in ultra-HD settings.
However, if your smartphone gets hot even on menial tasks such as scrolling memes on social media, then it’s a sign that a virus might’ve entered it.
Our smartphones are not designed to support malware. And, they get excessively hot when a virus or malware creeps inside them and starts using their power.
FAQ’s:
Can Anti-virus Software Increase Our Smartphones’ Security?
Yes, an anti-virus software can run security scans on your smartphone, locate malicious content, and remove them from your smartphone.
Do Our Smartphones Slow Down When They’re Affected By A Virus?
Yes, our smartphones usually slow down when they’re hit by a virus.
Hungry for more? Head over to my website for fresh articles.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional cybersecurity or technical advice. Virus symptoms may vary depending on device type, software, and usage behavior. Readers should use reputable security tools and consult professionals if serious issues arise. The author is not responsible for any damage or data loss resulting from actions taken based on this content.
