Step by Step: Remove Viruses from Your Cell Phone and Protect Your Device

Your digital security guaranteed in a simple and efficient way!

Learning how to remove viruses from your cell phone is simpler than it seems, and you can count on complete and easy-to-use applications for this! 

To guide your digital security learning journey, we present the main signs of virus infection and the dangers these threats can pose. 

Finally, check out the best tools and tips for navigating the virtual world safely and peacefully!

What are the most common signs of a cell phone virus infection?

Many people don't know, but cell phones can be targets of attacks by viruses and other malware, just like computers. 

It is no wonder that computers often come with some antivirus installed, while cell phones, on the other hand, do not include these tools by default. 

Therefore, the first step to ensuring your digital security is to learn how to identify signs of a virus infection on your cell phone. 

Here are some of the most common signs that may indicate that your cell phone is infected with a virus:

1. Slow performance: If your phone starts to run significantly slower than usual, it could be a sign that a virus is consuming system resources.
2. Increased data consumption: Malicious apps may use data in the background.
3. Pop-ups and intrusive ads: If your phone starts displaying frequent pop-ups, intrusive ads, or redirects to suspicious pages, this could be a symptom of an adware or malware infection.
4. Battery draining faster: Viruses that are constantly running in the background can cause increased power consumption.
5. Apps installed without your permission: If you notice new apps that you didn't install, or if existing apps start behaving strangely, this could indicate a virus infection.
6. Strange SMS messages: Some viruses can send SMS messages to premium numbers without your knowledge, resulting in additional charges to your account.
7. Device overheating: Malicious activities in the background can cause your phone to overheat, especially when using simple apps.
8. Abnormal system behavior: unexpected reboots, frequent application crashes, or a system that freezes more frequently.
9. Storage usage changes: Viruses can create and store unnecessary files on your device.
10. Compromised online accounts: If your online accounts (such as email or social media) start sending suspicious messages to your contacts or if you notice unauthorized activity, your phone may be compromised.

Main threats that cell phone viruses can pose

More than just causing problems with your cell phone's performance, viruses represent real threats that can come from the virtual environment and compromise your daily life. 

Therefore, before learning how to remove viruses from your cell phone, it is important to better understand the dangers involved in not investing in your digital security:

1. Theft of personal information: There are viruses designed to steal personal information such as passwords, credit card numbers, emails and banking details.
2. Unauthorized Access: Some viruses allow hackers to remotely access the infected device, allowing them to take improper control of the phone's camera, microphone and other features.
3. Spam and Phishing: Viruses can send spam SMS messages or emails to the victim's contacts, as well as direct them to phishing sites that aim to steal more personal or financial information.
4. Ransomware attacks: Some types of viruses, such as mobile ransomware, can encrypt data on your device and demand a ransom to release access to your files.
5. Espionage and surveillance: Certain types of malware are designed to monitor user activities, including calls, messages, and web browsing, exposing sensitive information.
6. Propagation to other devices: Just like real viruses, virtual viruses can use infected devices as a bridge to spread viruses to other cell phones, computers or devices connected to the same network.

Remove viruses from your cell phone with the best applications on the market

Now you are informed and prepared to identify suspicious behavior on your cell phone and you know the risks that viruses can pose. 

So, check out the apps we selected and see how to remove viruses from your cell phone!

TotalAV

When it comes to removing mobile viruses and keeping your device safe from online threats, TotalAV stands out as a comprehensive solution. 

This app combines essential security features like antivirus, protection against dangerous websites, and a VPN for added privacy. 

With TotalAV, you can scan your device in real-time for viruses and malware, and the VPN encrypts your online information. 

Additionally, the app lets you check whether your private data has already been exposed in online data breaches, providing an additional layer of security. 

For those looking to organize and optimize their device, TotalAV includes photo, video and contact management tools to free up space on your cell phone.

Surfshark Antivirus

Surfshark VPN is a comprehensive solution for those looking to protect their phone beyond just a VPN. 

This application offers tools like Alternative ID to create temporary identities and antivirus to protect against viruses and malware. 

Additionally, the app has an ad-blocker for safe and ad-free browsing, and offers fast servers in over 100 countries. 

Surfshark also issues data leak alerts and blocks trackers, keeping your personal information protected at all times. 

The free trial period is 7 days, after which you can choose to subscribe to the paid plan.

Bitdefender

To remove viruses from your cell phone, Bitdefender offers a complete solution with antivirus and additional tools to enhance your digital security. 

This application is designed to detect and remove viruses and other malware, as well as offering firewall, phishing protection, parental controls, and more.

Bitdefender recently introduced Application Anomaly Detection, which monitors application behavior in real-time to identify threats. 

Additionally, the application performs comprehensive scans to detect threats, blocks malicious links, and protects against phishing during your online activities.

Additionally, Bitdefender scans suspicious links in messages and notifications, and monitors data leaks to protect your personal information.

AVG Antivirus

AVG is an antivirus that offers comprehensive protection against viruses and malware in general. 

With it, you can perform real-time scanning of applications, games, settings, and files to detect and remove threats. 

Additionally, the app offers to clean up unnecessary files to optimize your device's storage space. 

You can also use AVG to lock sensitive apps with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, ensuring greater privacy and security. 

To protect your private photos, you can create an encrypted Photo Vault. Additionally, use the VPN tool for anonymous internet browsing.

ESET Mobile Security Antivirus

ESET Mobile Security Antivirus is designed especially for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. 

This application detects and removes viruses, malware, spyware and other threats, as well as performs real-time scans of applications, files and device contents.

 Additionally, ESET protects against fraudulent websites, phishing and other threats while you browse the internet on your mobile device, and allows you to protect sensitive applications with passwords. 

It also offers remote location, locking and wiping capabilities in case of device theft or loss. 

Finally, among its many features, the application also includes a network inspector that identifies security breaches in the network and connected devices.

Other ways to keep your phone protected from viruses and threats

In addition to using effective antivirus apps, there are several other steps you can take to keep your phone safe from viruses and other cyber threats.

1. Keep your operating system up to date: Keep your operating system (Android, iOS, etc.) and apps up to date. Updates often include security patches that fix known vulnerabilities.
2. Only install apps from trusted sources: Only download apps from official app stores, such as the Google Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS. 
3. Check app permissions: Review the permissions requested by each app before installing it. Malicious apps often request excessive permissions that are not necessary for their functionality.
4. Use a reliable VPN: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can secure your internet connection by encrypting your data traffic and hiding your IP address.
5. Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks: unsecured public Wi-Fi networks as they can be easy targets for data interception attacks.

Are iPhones less prone to viruses?

Yes, iPhones are less prone to viruses compared to Android devices. This is mainly due to the differences in the Android and iOS operating systems. 

Apple's iOS system is known for its closed environment, which means it does not allow the installation of applications from unknown sources, something that is more common on Android devices. 

On Android, users have the option to install apps from outside the Google Play Store, which increases the risk of downloading apps infected with malware.

Additionally, iOS has native protection mechanisms that make a difference in device security. One of the most important is Apple's rigorous review process for any application that enters the App Store. 

Apple reviews each app for potential vulnerabilities, malicious code, or inappropriate behavior before allowing it to be made available to users. 

Additionally, iOS uses a technique called sandboxing, which isolates each app from the rest of the system. This means that even if one app is compromised, it cannot access other parts of the system or data from other apps, limiting the potential for damage.

Apple's centralized update system also contributes to security. All iOS devices receive updates simultaneously, which helps close security holes quickly. 

In contrast, Android fragmentation, where different manufacturers control updates, could leave some devices vulnerable for longer.

The Importance of Regular Backup: Protect Your Data

Taking regular backups is essential to protect your data from accidental loss, device failure or cyberattacks. 

The importance of regular backups is especially important in cases of theft, loss or virus infection, where your data may be compromised or inaccessible. 

Keeping backups ensures that you can recover your photos, contacts, documents, and other important data even if something happens to your phone.

On Android, the backup process can be done in several ways. One of the simplest is to use Google Drive, which offers a built-in solution for saving your data. 

When you enable automatic backup, your data, including contacts, messages, device settings, and apps, are saved to the cloud. Additionally, photos and videos can be automatically backed up to Google Photos.

On iOS, backups can be performed via iCloud. iCloud allows users to back up almost everything on their devices, including app data, settings, messages, and even the home screen layout. 

To activate automatic backup on iOS, simply access the iPhone settings, go to the “iCloud” section and activate the “iCloud Backup” option. 

Alternatively, users can manually back up by connecting the iPhone to a computer and using iTunes to create a local backup.

In either case, it is recommended that you keep automatic backup enabled and perform periodic checks to ensure that your data is being saved correctly. 

This will ensure that no matter what happens to your device, you won't lose any valuable information.

Public Wi-Fi precautions: keep your phone safe on open networks

Using public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it also poses significant risks to your phone's security. 

Open networks are often targeted by hackers, who take advantage of the lack of security to intercept data transmitted by users, such as personal information, passwords and banking details. 

The risks of using public Wi-Fi include the possibility of falling victim to “man-in-the-middle” attacks, where a hacker places himself between you and the access point to intercept and possibly alter communication.

To protect your browsing on open networks, it is crucial to adopt some security practices. 

One of the most important is to avoid accessing sensitive information, such as bank accounts or corporate emails, while connected to a public network. 

Additionally, it is recommended to disable the option to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks, which prevents your device from inadvertently connecting to unknown networks.

Another effective practice is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data. Even on a public Wi-Fi network, a VPN helps protect your privacy and security.

Keeping your device's firewall turned on, disabling file sharing, and using two-factor authentication for important services are other steps that can help ensure your phone stays secure, even when you need to use public Wi-Fi.

What to do if your cell phone is stolen or lost?

In the event of theft or loss of your cell phone, it is essential to act quickly to protect your personal information and minimize damage. 

The first immediate step is to try to locate the device using tracking features like “Find My iPhone” on iOS or “Find My Device” on Android. 

These services allow you to locate your phone on a map, make it play a sound to help locate it, or even remotely lock and erase all data on the device.

If you are unable to recover your device, the next step is to block your SIM card by contacting your mobile operator. This will prevent the thief from using your phone number to make calls or access mobile data. 

Additionally, it is recommended to immediately change the passwords of all important accounts, such as emails, social networks and banks, that were accessible on the device.

Another crucial step is to report the theft to the police. In many countries, you can file a police report online, which can be helpful in formalizing the loss and possibly claiming insurance, if applicable. 

If you have insurance for your cell phone, contact your insurance company to start the replacement or refund process.

Finally, if you used two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts, it's important to update the way you receive security codes, especially if they were sent via SMS to the stolen phone. 

This set of actions can help mitigate losses in such an unpleasant situation as the loss or theft of a cell phone.

How can using Bluetooth put your phone at risk?

Using Bluetooth can actually put your phone at risk due to invisible threats transmitted by this technology. 

While Bluetooth is widely used to connect devices like headphones, cars, and other gadgets, it can also be exploited by hackers to access your phone without your permission. 

One of the main risks is so-called “bluejacking”, where a hacker sends unsolicited messages to your device, or “bluesnarfing”, where data can be extracted from your cell phone without you noticing.

Another threat is the possibility of automatic connection to unknown devices. If your phone's Bluetooth is turned on and set to automatically accept connections, a hacker could force a connection and infect your device with malware or access personal information.

To improve security, it is recommended to turn off Bluetooth when not in use. This not only protects your phone, but also helps save battery. 

Also, avoid pairing devices in public places and disable the “visibility” option on your Bluetooth, making your device invisible to other nearby devices. 

In situations where Bluetooth usage is necessary, make sure the devices you are connecting are trusted and protected with passwords or other forms of authentication.

Digital Education: Teach Your Family to Protect Their Devices

Digital literacy is essential to ensure that everyone in your family knows how to protect their devices and personal data. 

With the growing reliance on smartphones and other connected devices, it is crucial that both children and seniors understand cyber risks and how to protect themselves.

For children, it is important to teach good practices from an early age, such as creating strong passwords, not sharing personal information online and the importance of being suspicious of unknown links and applications. 

It is also essential to explain the risks of social media and how to maintain privacy on digital platforms.

Seniors, on the other hand, may need help understanding security settings and the importance of keeping devices up to date. 

Teach them to recognize and avoid common scams, such as phishing and fraudulent calls, which can lead to the theft of personal data.

Using parental control tools on children's devices and providing regular assistance to seniors to check that security settings are correct are practices that can increase the digital security of the entire family. 

Additionally, it is important to maintain an open dialogue about online security, encouraging everyone to be aware of new threats and security updates.

These actions not only protect devices, but also create a culture of digital security within the family, which is increasingly essential in today's connected world.

Key Points: What You Need to Remember

• Use apps like TotalAV, Surfshark and Bitdefender to remove viruses and protect your cell phone against digital threats.
• To do backup regularly is crucial to protect your data from loss, theft or virus infections.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi to access sensitive information, and use VPN to protect your browsing.
• In case of theft or loss of your cell phone, locate and lock the device, and change your passwords immediately.
• THE Using Bluetooth can expose your phone to hackers; disable when not in use.
• Educate your family about digital security to protect devices and personal data.

See also: How to make your cell phone battery last longer

As you saw earlier, one of the warning signs to identify the presence of viruses on your cell phone is the rapid discharge of the battery. 

However, it is not only viruses that can cause this problem; often, daily usage practices and settings can also influence it.

That's why we've created a comprehensive article to help you better understand how habits, apps, and settings can compromise your phone's battery life.

In addition to providing this information, we also provide valuable tips to extend the life of your battery, allowing you to use your cell phone for longer.

To explore more about how to increase your cell phone battery life, check out the article below!