Smartphones are more powerful than ever but that also makes them a bigger target for malicious software. Whether you're on Android or iOS, malware can sneak in through shady apps, phishing messages or unsafe downloads.
So how do you know if your phone has a virus?
In this guide, you'll learn how to detect signs of infection, what to do if your phone is compromised and how to protect your device going forward.
🚨 Common Signs Your Phone Might Be Infected
Watch out for these symptoms. One of them may not mean much but several together are a red flag.
Battery drains fast even when you’re not using the phone
Phone gets hot without reason
Unfamiliar apps appear without your knowledge
Data usage spikes for no obvious reason
Ads pop up when you’re not inside a browser
Slow performance even after restarting
You’re redirected to strange websites
Contacts report strange messages from your number
Your browser homepage changes on its own
🔍 How to Check for Malware on Android
Android is more open by design, which makes it both flexible and vulnerable. If you use an Android phone, do this:
Check your app list
Go to Settings > Apps
Look for suspicious names you don’t recognize
Review app permissions
Look for apps with permissions they don’t need (e.g. flashlight using camera or microphone)
Use Google Play Protect
Open the Play Store
Tap your profile > Play Protect > Scan
Install a reputable antivirus app
Bitdefender, Malwarebytes or Norton can detect hidden threats
🍏 How to Check for Malware on iPhone
iOS is more secure by default but not invincible. If your iPhone is acting strangely:
Check for configuration profiles
Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management
Remove any unfamiliar profiles
Look at battery usage
Go to Settings > Battery
See which apps are using the most power
Update iOS
Apple patches security holes regularly
Go to Settings > General > Software Update
Avoid jailbreaking
Jailbreaking disables core security layers
🧼 What to Do If You Think Your Phone Has a Virus
If the signs are obvious or you're not sure, follow these steps:
On Android:
Delete unknown apps
Clear your cache (Settings > Storage > Cached data)
Restart in Safe Mode to troubleshoot
Run antivirus scan
Factory reset as a last resort (back up your data first)
On iPhone:
Delete suspicious apps
Revoke unknown profiles
Restart your device
Update iOS
Reset your iPhone if needed (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset)
🛡️ How to Prevent Future Infections
Staying clean is easier than cleaning up. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Only install apps from official stores
Read reviews before downloading
Avoid sketchy websites
Never click unknown links in SMS or email
Enable automatic updates
Don’t jailbreak or sideload apps
Use strong passwords and biometric locks
Keep backups of your important data
âś… Final Thoughts
Malware on phones is not as rare as most people think. It hides behind shady ads, fake apps and clickbait links. The good news is that most infections can be avoided with simple habits.
Keep your system updated, install apps carefully and stay alert to the early warning signs.
Your phone does a lot. It deserves protection just like your computer does.