How to delete a virus on Android Devices – Guide
Android users are increasingly at risk of malicious viruses, with thousands now in circulation. The latest malware is highly sophisticated and can go undetected, allowing it to steal data, post fake comments and even empty bank accounts. Other forms of malware may be more obvious, such as redirecting web browsers to pornographic websites or generating intrusive pop-ups.
How to Stay protected from Android Virus
Every Android device now comes with Google Play Protect, an integrated security measure that scans apps for malicious content, no matter where they’re installed from. This built-in antivirus provides an extra layer of protection for your phone.
Installing apps from Google Play reduces the risk of your phone becoming infected with a virus. Google scans all apps added to its store for malicious behavior and removes any that don’t meet its standards. Though some may still slip through, it’s unlikely you’ll download a virus-infected app from the Play Store.
Sideloading apps from unknown sources can lead to malware infections, as evidenced by the Agent Smith malware found in apps downloaded from the 9Apps third-party app store. To avoid such risks, only download apps from trusted locations and avoid “cracked” versions of paid offers.
Despite the convenience of downloading apps from Google Play, users should be aware of potential risks. Fraudulent apps can take money without providing any service, and free apps may abuse phone permissions to access personal data. These issues are separate from the threat of Android viruses.
To protect yourself from viruses on any platform, practice safe online habits: don’t download from untrustworthy sources, steer clear of suspicious ads, and pay attention to the permissions requested by apps.
Apps to clean your Phone from a virus
Android virus removal apps are plentiful on the Play Store, but many are bloated and charge for unnecessary features. Fortunately, there are some worthwhile options.
If you suspect your Android device has been infected with malware, downloading and running a scan with one of the recommended apps is a good idea. To prevent further infection, following basic security tips is also advised.
malwarebytes
Malwarebytes, a leading provider of desktop security, now offers an Android app. The free version scans for malware and eliminates any threats it finds, as well as providing an audit feature to monitor app permissions. Plus, there are no ads.
For those looking for a reliable virus scanner and removal app for Android, the premium version of this app offers real-time detection and additional features not found in the free version - all for just $12 per year.
Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Bitdefender is a great choice for Android users looking for a lightweight virus removal app. Its cloud scanning technology ensures minimal impact on your device, and it doesn’t come with any unnecessary extras. While there are ads to upgrade to the full version, this app is still an effective way to quickly scan for viruses.
Android antivirus apps to avoid
Ignore the big-name virus-checking apps from companies like Avast, Norton and Avira - they’re loaded with unnecessary extras and can slow down your device. Instead, opt for one of Android’s many other virus-checking options.
Many RAM boosters and cleaning tools are unnecessary and can actually do more harm than good. Android already has features like Chrome’s website detection and blocking, the Find My Device feature to locate a lost phone, and the ability to manage app permissions.
Security companies may try to convince you that their free antivirus apps are essential for your Android device’s safety, but don’t be fooled: these apps are not necessary and you should never pay for them.
Manual malware removal in Android safe mode
Running an antivirus scan is the first step to removing malware from an Android device. If that doesn’t work, manual action may be necessary.
Android users can access safe mode to troubleshoot system issues. By disabling third-party applications, the operating system can be loaded without them, allowing users to identify and remove any apps that may be causing problems. To enter safe mode, simply boot your phone normally.
Press the Power button and hold until the power menu appears.
Press and hold the Power button until you’re asked to reboot your device in safe mode.
Wait for your phone to restart and look for a watermark in the lower left corner indicating it is in safe mode.
If your phone has been infected, try booting it in safe mode to get it back up and running. To do this, follow these steps.
Press and hold the power button, then press and hold the volume up and down buttons simultaneously.
Once the phoneo logo appears, release the power button and continue to hold the volume buttons.
Once the device boots up, a safe mode watermark will appear in the lower left corner.
If your device doesn’t respond to the usual combination of buttons to enter Safe Mode, a quick Google search may help you find the right one. Once in Safe Mode, go to Settings > Apps > Downloaded on Android Nougat or earlier, or Settings > Apps & notifications > See all X apps on Oreo or later, to identify and uninstall any malicious apps.
If your phone is acting up, check for a malicious app. Look at the list of apps you’ve installed and remove any that were added around the time the problem started. Also, be sure to look out for any apps you didn’t download.
To get rid of an app, tap its name and select Uninstall from the info page. If that doesn’t work, restart your phone normally to remove any virus it may have caused. If you still can’t uninstall the app, it likely has device administrator access. To revoke this access, follow the instructions provided.
Head to your device’s settings, then security, and check for any apps with administrator privileges. On Android Oreo and newer versions, this can be found under Security & Location > Device Admin Apps.
Tap the checkbox next to the app to enable it.
Tap the “Disable” option when prompted.
Final note
Share this guide to help your friends delete viruses from their Android devices. If you have any questions, reach out to us for assistance.
