‘Delete the app’ say experts warning to check 8 signs a criminal is logging everything you type on Android phone

CYBERSECURITY experts have urged Android users to remove malicious apps from their phones or risk losing money.

In a new blog post, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky warned smartphone owners about malware that could attack their devices.

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Malware is malicious software specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system.

And Android smartphones are one of the biggest targets of cybercriminals when it comes to malware.

This is due to Android software, which features an open-source program that is easier to infiltrate than say, iOS.

“Compared to Apple’s App Store, Google’s Play Store has less rigid security measures in place,” Kaspersky expanded.

“In addition, Android users can download apps from various sources on the internet. This creates an environment in which cyber attacks are possible,” it added.

One of the biggest ways hackers get malware onto Android devices is via malware-laden apps.

These malicious apps include programs like trojans, adware, spyware, and more.

The goal of such software is to attack your device, steal your data, and eventually hack your banking information.

Some data that could be stolen include your photos, texts, and even what you’re typing in real-time.

Another goal of malware is to disseminate the malicious programs to other devices and users.

SIGNS OF MALWARE ON YOUR DEVICE

To help users steer clear of malware, Kasperksy has shared some signs that indicate it could be lingering on your device.

• You start noticing a lot of pop-ups or inappropriate ads while browsing the internet
• Your battery appears to decrease much faster than usual
• You see apps you don’t recognize on your device
• Your phone lags, crashes often, or displays repeated error messages
• Your phone won’t shut down or restart properly
• Your phone won’t allow you to remove software
• Contacts say they have received messages from you that you didn’t send yourself
• You notice a decrease in the balance of your mobile account

HOW TO STAY SAFE

For starters, it’s important to always keep your device updated.

You should also avoid installing apps from unofficial Android stores. If you notice apps on your device that you didn’t install, delete them.

“Removing apps you think are malicious can be tricky,” Kaspersky said.

“Sometimes, it is sufficient to remove the app’s permissions and delete the app,” it added.

However, sometimes you will need to download a legitimate anti-malware service and remove them that way, or factor reset your device.

Furthermore, you should never download anything from strange pop-up windows.

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk