Android is the most widely used operating system for mobile devices around the world. However, with its vast popularity comes a downside – vulnerabilities. Android devices are at high risk of getting infected with viruses and malware that can cause harm in various ways. Today, we will discuss the ways to get viruses off your Android phone and ensure the safety of your device and data.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Get Viruses off Your Android Phone
Viruses and malware can infect your phone in multiple ways. They can be downloaded through unsecured websites, links, or apps that are not available on the Google Playstore. Once on your phone, they can access your personal files, passwords, and even your bank details without your knowledge. Viruses can also cause your device to slow down, drain the battery, and heat up faster than usual. Hence, it’s essential to get rid of viruses from your Android phone.
Method 1: Via Anti-virus App
The easiest and most convenient way to get viruses off your Android phone is by using anti-virus software. These apps can detect and remove viruses easily, and some of them also provide real-time protection. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Download and install an anti-virus app like Avast Mobile Security, Norton Security, or AVG Antivirus from the Google Playstore.
Step 2: Open the app and run a full system scan. The anti-virus software will scan your device for malware and viruses.
Step 3: After the scan is complete, the app will display all the viruses and malware found on your device.
Step 4: Click on the option provided by the app to remove them.
Pros:
– Quick and easy to use
– Detects and removes viruses effectively
– Some apps provide additional security features like real-time protection and anti-phishing
Cons:
– Some apps may charge for providing full features
– The accuracy of some apps may vary
Method 2: Manual Removal
If you cannot use an anti-virus app for some reason, you can try removing the viruses manually. This method requires some knowledge of the file system, so proceed with caution. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Put your device in safe mode. You can do this by pressing the power button for a few seconds until a menu appears. Then, press and hold the ‘Power off’ option until ‘Reboot to Safe Mode’ appears. Press it to reboot your device in safe mode.
Step 2: Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Apps and notifications’ > ‘See all apps.’ This will show you all the apps installed on your device.
Step 3: Check the list for any suspicious apps that you do not remember installing or apps that have unusually high storage usage. Tap on those apps to open their settings.
Step 4: Click on ‘Uninstall.’ Some apps may not have an uninstall option. In such cases, click on ‘Disable’ instead.
Step 5: Once you’ve uninstalled/disabled all suspicious apps, reboot your device in normal mode.
Pros:
– Free of cost
– Removes the virus without using an app
– No reliance on third-party software
Cons:
– Risk of accidentally deleting important system files
– Requires technical knowledge of the system
Method 3: Factory Reset
If none of the above methods works, then the last and final option is to perform a factory reset. This method removes all apps, files, and data from your device and restores it to its original state. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Backup all your important files and data onto a computer or an external device.
Step 2: Turn off your device.
Step 3: Press and hold the power button and the volume down button together until the device logo appears.
Step 4: Navigate to ‘Recovery Mode’ using the volume buttons. Press the power button to select it.
Step 5: Select ‘Wipe data/factory reset.’ This may be different on different devices, so check your device’s manual in case of confusion.
Step 6: Confirm the selection and wait for your device to reset.
Step 7: Once the process is complete, your device will restart as new.
Pros:
– Ensures complete removal of viruses
– Restores the device to the original state
Cons:
– Loss of all data if not backed up
– A time-consuming process
What to Do If You Can’t Get Viruses off Your Android Phone
If none of the above methods seem to work, then it’s time to consult a professional. You can take your device to an authorized service center or a mobile phone repair shop to troubleshoot the problem. They may use advanced tools and software to remove the virus and fix any other issues with your device.
Bonus Tips
– Always download apps from the Google Playstore only.
– Keep your device and apps updated with the latest security patches.
– Regularly back up your data onto an external device to prevent loss of data.
– Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting unsecured websites on your phone.
5 FAQs
Q1: What are the signs of a virus on an Android phone?
A: The signs of a virus on an Android phone may include sudden battery drains, overheating, slow performance, unknown apps installing on their own, and unusual security prompts.
Q2: Can I remove a virus from my phone using a computer?
A: Yes, you can remove a virus from your phone using a computer by connecting your phone using a USB cable and running anti-virus software.
Q3: Do all anti-virus apps provide real-time protection on Android devices?
A: No, not all anti-virus apps provide real-time protection on Android devices. Some apps only offer manual scanning and virus removal.
Q4: Can a factory reset remove all the viruses from my phone?
A: Yes, a factory reset removes all viruses and malware from your phone.
Q5: Is it safe to use third-party anti-virus apps on an Android device?
A: Yes, it is safe to use reliable third-party anti-virus apps on an Android device. Always make sure to download them from trusted sources only.
Final Thoughts
Removing viruses from your Android phone might seem daunting, but it’s essential to ensure the security of your device. With the methods mentioned in this article, you can easily get rid of viruses from your Android phone and keep your device and data safe. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so always stay cautious while downloading apps and visiting websites on your device.