Hackers are constantly looking for new ways to infiltrate our devices and steal the huge treasure of data we have on them.
With so many of us now addicted to smartphones, it’s no wonder they’re such a big target.
We’ve seen it all, from vicious WhatsApp cons to risky apps that are not what they seem.
Scary enough, many people are unaware that a hack is going on in the background at all.
But luckily, there are revealing signs to keep an eye on.
While they are not always specific if you sense that something is wrong with your iPhone or Android device, these may very well be the clues you need to keep an eye on.
Sluggish smartphone performance
If apps take longer than expected to load, it could mean you have been hacked.
The same is true if the app also crashes randomly.
2. The battery drains quickly
Smartphone batteries discharge faster with time.
But if it happens suddenly, it can point to malware.
This is because malware secretly disappears into the background and absorbs more force to carry out its malicious purpose.
Data is being used up
If you have noticed that your data is being consumed too quickly, this may also be a sign.
Like the battery, malware can send things into the background.
4. Bill changes
If you’ve had an unexplained bill, this is a red flag.
This can mean that more data is being used up by malware and it costs you for it.
5. Pop-ups
Pop-ups are pretty standard on web browsers.
However, when they start popping up all too often at various points, it could mean that you have become infected with some sort of risky adware.
6. Overheating
An overheated smartphone can mean that it gets old or is exposed to too much of the sun.
But it can also be an indication that some malware is starting to work.
What to do if you suspect your phone is being hacked
If you think your smartphone may have been infected with a virus, malware or something else skewed, the first thing to do is download a reliable antivirus app and run a scan.
There is a complete list worth considering here.
You should also download any apps that you think may be behind it.
If the problem persists, the last resort may be to reset your phone to factory defaults – but back up precious files as images that you know are safe first.
This story originally appeared on The sun and has been reproduced here with permission.