How to Fix a Hacked Android Phone

Thứ bảy - 27/04/2024 01:10
It can feel stressful and daunting when someone gets control of your phone. If you suspect that someone hacked your Android device, don't worry—removing the hacker and their point of entry isn't as hard as you'd think, and wikiHow is here...
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It can feel stressful and daunting when someone gets control of your phone. If you suspect that someone hacked your Android device, don't worry—removing the hacker and their point of entry isn't as hard as you'd think, and wikiHow is here to walk you through the steps. We'll show you common signs that you've been hacked or have malware, walk you through fixing your hacked device, and help you improve your Android's security to avoid future hacks.

Section 1 of 3:

Signs Your Android is Hacked

  1. Step 1 Pop-ups and performance issues.
    If your device is running slowly and a reboot doesn't seem to help, a hacker may have installed malware on your phone. You may also notice a lot of pop-ups, including ads and demands for payment, as well as poor battery performance.[1]
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Section 2 of 3:

Remove the Hacker

  1. Step 4 Delete unrecognized apps.
    Whether you've found any odd apps with administrator rights or not, you'll want to go through all of your apps and delete the ones you didn't install. If you see some apps that came preinstalled on your phone, you might not be able to remove those, but others are easy to uninstall from your app list or in the Settings app under Apps.
    EXPERT TIP
    Brandon Phipps

    Brandon Phipps

    Technology Specialist
    Brandon Phipps is a Technology Specialist based in Bakersfield, CA. He is the owner of Second Star Technologies and specializes in Managed IT Services for small and mid-sized businesses in Bakersfield, CA. With over 23 years of experience, he offers expert cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network management solutions. Brandon is a committed community member and coach who leads and innovates in tech and sports coaching. His dedication to local businesses and communities is evident in his hands-on, tailored approach to IT solutions.
    Brandon Phipps
    Brandon Phipps
    Technology Specialist

    Detect spyware by reviewing your system settings regularly. Keep an eye out for unfamiliar apps running, your phone turning off randomly, or strange icons popping up. Be aware that certain spyware may be well-hidden and difficult to detect through a basic system review.

  2. Step 9 Install antimalware software and run a scan.
    There are many antimalware/antivirus options for your Android that don't cost anything at all. Most of the best options have paid upgrade options that allow the software to always run in the background, which can help you avoid getting hacked in the future. But for now, we'll just want to install some software so we can run a malware scan. Some excellent free options are Mobile Security, Sophos Intercept X, AVG Antivirus & Security, and Avast Antivirus & Security. All of these options are available for free in the Play Store.
    • Once you download the app, open it, and then follow the on-screen instructions to scan for viruses and malware.
    • If the scanning tool identifies a threat, you'll be prompted to remove it.
    EXPERT TIP
    Brandon Phipps

    Brandon Phipps

    Technology Specialist
    Brandon Phipps is a Technology Specialist based in Bakersfield, CA. He is the owner of Second Star Technologies and specializes in Managed IT Services for small and mid-sized businesses in Bakersfield, CA. With over 23 years of experience, he offers expert cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network management solutions. Brandon is a committed community member and coach who leads and innovates in tech and sports coaching. His dedication to local businesses and communities is evident in his hands-on, tailored approach to IT solutions.
    Brandon Phipps
    Brandon Phipps
    Technology Specialist

    Malwarebytes is a top choice for scanning your Samsung and Android phones for spyware. It monitors your system to see what apps and services are running in the background and detects anything malicious.

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Section 3 of 3:

Prevent Future Hacks

  1. Step 8 Avoid charging your device at public charging stations.
    "Juice jacking" is a type of hacking that occurs when you plug a susceptible phone into a charging station that has malware installed. To avoid data theft and malware installation without your consent, stick to using your own charger.[16]
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