Most smartphone users rely heavily on their devices for communication, productivity, and entertainment. However, it’s necessary to be aware of the signs that your smartphone may have been compromised by hackers.
In this list, we will explore the top most common indications that your smartphone is hacked and provide you with actionable steps to address the issue and secure your device. Stay informed and empowered to protect your digital life!
Unusual Activity
Strange apps installed
Any smartphone user should be vigilant about unfamiliar apps appearing on their device. If you notice strange apps that you did not download, it could be a sign that your smartphone has been compromised. These apps may contain malware or spyware that could be tracking your activity without your knowledge.
Data usage spikes
Unusual spikes in data usage on your smartphone could indicate that something is amiss. If you find that your data usage has significantly increased without any changes in your usage habits, it could be a red flag for a potential hack. Hackers might be using your device to send out spam messages, make calls, or transfer data without your consent.
To monitor your data usage regularly, you can check the data usage statistics on your smartphone settings. If you notice any unexplained spikes, it’s vital to investigate further and take necessary steps to secure your device.
Battery drains quickly
You may start noticing that your smartphone’s battery drains quickly even when you are not using it intensively. This could be a sign that your phone is compromised and certain apps or malware are running in the background, consuming power.
Slow operation
While your phone may have worked smoothly in the past, you now find it lagging and taking longer to perform simple tasks. This slowdown in operation could indicate that there are malicious programs or spyware affecting your phone’s performance.
Performance issues such as rapid battery drainage and slow operation are key indicators that your smartphone may be compromised. It is vital to take action promptly to protect your personal information and data from being accessed by unauthorized parties. Stay vigilant and follow the necessary steps to address these performance issues.
Pop-ups or Ads
Intrusive Advertisements
Even though ads are a common sight on many websites and apps, excessively frequent or overly intrusive ads on your smartphone could be a sign of a hack. Some hackers inject malware into your device to display unwanted pop-ups and advertisements, disrupting your user experience and potentially leading you to click on malicious links.
Screen overlay attacks
Some hackers use a technique known as screen overlay attacks to manipulate your device’s screen and display fake pop-ups or login pages on top of legitimate apps. With these deceptive overlays, attackers can trick you into entering your personal information, such as login credentials or financial details, which are then captured by the hackers for malicious purposes.
Screen overlay attacks are a serious threat as they can be difficult to detect, making it crucial to be cautious when granting permissions to apps and keeping your device’s software updated to prevent vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit in these types of attacks.
Unexplained phone bills
Now, one of the first signs that your smartphone may be hacked is receiving unexplained high phone bills. If you notice a sudden spike in your monthly charges without any logical explanation such as increased usage or international calls, it could be a red flag that someone has gained unauthorized access to your device.
Subscription sign-ups
You may find yourself subscribed to services you never signed up for if your smartphone has been compromised. You might start receiving notifications for premium subscriptions or services that you have no recollection of subscribing to. This could indicate that a hacker is using your device to sign up for paid services without your knowledge or consent.
Plus, failing to cancel these subscriptions promptly can lead to financial loss and potentially expose your personal information to further risk.
Strange Messages
SMS from unknown
Now, one of the clear signs that your smartphone may be hacked is receiving SMS messages from unknown numbers. Some of these messages may contain suspicious links or ask for personal information, posing a security risk to your device and data. If you notice an influx of such messages, it’s crucial to take action to protect your device.
Odd outgoing communications
The odd outgoing communications from your smartphone, such as text messages or emails that you didn’t send, can indicate a security breach. The sudden appearance of sent messages in your outbox that you have no recollection of creating can be a cause for concern. These unauthorized activities may signify that your device has been compromised by a hacker.
The presence of strange outgoing communications can also include emails sent from your accounts without your knowledge. It’s necessary to review your sent items and outbox regularly to spot any unusual activity promptly. If you detect any suspicious outgoing communications, it’s vital to secure your device and accounts immediately.
Hit the NEXT button to know what to do if your smartphone is hacked.