How to check a hacked Android smartphone?

If you suspect that your Android smartphone has been hacked, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your personal information. Follow these steps to investigate and secure your device:

Inspect for Unusual or Unauthorized Apps:

• Go through the list of installed apps on your phone. If you find any apps that you do not remember installing, they could be malicious.
• Some hackers install unauthorized apps to spy on your activity or steal your data. To help identify and remove these, use the Antivirus AI app by Protectstar, which scans your device for any suspicious or harmful applications.

Monitor Battery Usage:

• A sudden or unexplained increase in battery usage can indicate that malicious software is running in the background. Hackers often use your device’s resources for their own purposes, leading to faster battery drain.
• You can check your battery usage under "Settings" -> "Battery" -> "Battery Usage" to see which apps are consuming the most power. If you notice anything unusual, it could be a sign of a hack.

Check for Unusual Data Usage:

• Keep an eye on your mobile data usage. If you see a significant spike in data consumption without a corresponding increase in your activities, it could mean that a hacker is using your device to send or receive data.
• The Firewall AI app by Protectstar can monitor your phone’s network activity and alert you to any unauthorized data transfers. It also allows you to block any suspicious connections.

Watch for Pop-Up Ads or Strange Windows:

• Frequent pop-up ads or unusual pop-up windows appearing on your screen can be a sign of adware or malware. These intrusive elements are often a result of a compromised device.
• Use Antivirus AI to detect and remove any malware that might be causing these pop-ups, ensuring your device remains clean and secure.

Check for Unusual Network Activity:

• If your phone is making unexpected network connections, such as connecting to unknown IP addresses or domains, this could be an indication of a hack.
• You can monitor this activity using the Firewall AI app, which provides detailed logs of your phone’s network connections. This app allows you to block any suspicious or unauthorized connections, adding an extra layer of security.

Run a Comprehensive Security Scan:

• For a thorough check, run an AI Deep Scan using the Antivirus AI app by Protectstar. This advanced scan will search your device for any hidden threats, malware, or vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
• Antivirus AI uses artificial intelligence to identify and eliminate even the most sophisticated malware, giving you peace of mind that your device is secure.

If You Suspect a Hack: If, after performing these checks, you believe your phone has been compromised, it’s vital to take immediate action:

• Factory Reset Your Device: This will remove all data and apps, including any malware, from your phone. Make sure to back up important data before doing this.
• Change All Passwords: Update the passwords for your accounts, particularly those that were accessed from your device.
• Install Reliable Security Software: Protect your device from future threats by installing security apps like Protectstar's Antivirus AI and Firewall AI. These tools provide ongoing protection and can help prevent future hacks.

By following these steps, you can identify potential security breaches on your Android smartphone and take the necessary actions to protect your data and privacy.