Viruses and malware can find their way to your smartphone through various means either consciously or when you are completely unaware.
However, if not detected early and removed, they can inflict so much damage that your device is rendered irreparable.
Here are what to look out for that might signal a malware attack or infection on your smartphone:
1. Slow performance
Is your phone taking too long to process or load apps? It could be because it’s housing a malware that interrupts processing power and speed, especially when you are carrying out intensive tasks. This problem also results in apps freezing or crashing in most cases. However, make sure your RAM is not overworked by having too many apps, browsers and widgets all open at once before concluding it’s a virus.
2. Increased unnecessary adverts
A lot of free games and apps come with a couple of adverts that pop up when you are using them. However, be wary of adverts that pop up on the screen or the notification bar when no application is open. It could be a sign your phone has been infected with a malicious advert malware.
3. Unexplained increase in data usage bills
Some malware is used by hackers to subscribe you to online premium application services that update automatically when your data is on. This results in unnecessary data usage bills.
4. Drains battery faster than usual
With a virus running in the background your phone battery works double the time it’s expected. Therefore your battery draining unusually could mean your phone is infected.