How to know if your phone is hacked or not

In today’s digital age, our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves, storing a wealth of personal and sensitive information. While smartphones offer convenience and connectivity, they are also a prime target for hackers. Knowing whether your phone has been compromised is crucial to protect your data, privacy, and personal security.

We receive many emails every day and many links that we click on. They look so credible that we click on the links and install apps. Sometimes as a part of our routine, we click on malicious links that give us unauthorized access to our phones with credible brand names. Let’s take a look at what signs we should look out for to know if our phone has been hacked and how we can protect our digital devices and privacy.

How to know if your phone is hacked

1. Unexplained battery drain: If your phone’s battery is draining unusually fast, it may be due to background processes initiated by malware or spyware.
2. Slow performance: A significant drop in your phone’s speed and responsiveness can indicate a hacking attempt.
3. Data Usage Spikes: Unexpected data usage can be a sign of malicious activity, as hackers often transfer data from your phone without your knowledge.
4. Mysterious apps: Check your installed apps for any unfamiliar or suspicious apps that you didn’t download. Some malicious software disguises itself as harmless apps.
5. Unusual pop-ups: An increase in pop-up ads, especially when you’re not using a browser or a specific app, is a red flag.
6. Overheating: A phone that overheats frequently, even during light usage, might be compromised.
7. Unauthorized account access: If you receive notifications about unauthorized access attempts to your accounts, it could indicate a breach.
8. Spam messages: Sending or receiving spam messages and calls from unknown numbers may suggest that your phone is compromised.
9. Disabled security features: If your phone’s security features, such as screen lock or antivirus, are disabled without your knowledge, it’s a strong indicator of hacking.

What to do if you suspect your phone is hacked

1. Disconnect from the Internet: Turn off your phone’s Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further unauthorized access.
2. Change passwords: Change your passwords for email, social media, and any sensitive apps immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
3. Scan for malware: Install a reputable mobile security app and run a full scan to detect and remove any malicious software.
4. Update software: Ensure your phone’s operating system and all apps are up-to-date. Updates often include security patches.
5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Enable 2FA on all your important accounts for an extra layer of security.
6. Review app permissions: Review the permissions granted to your apps and disable any unnecessary access to your phone’s features and data.
7. Check for suspicious apps: Uninstall any suspicious or unfamiliar apps, especially those not downloaded from official app stores.
8. Factory Reset: If you are unable to resolve the issue or suspect persistent malware, consider performing a factory reset. Back up your data before doing so.
9. Seek professional help: If you’re unable to resolve the issue or have strong reasons to believe you’ve been targeted, consult with a cybersecurity expert.