Experts Warn: Your Phone Has Been Hacked If It Does This

If hackers have accessed your phone, they leave traces – and here’s what to look for. Experts from the IT company NordVPN have published an article with various tips on how to detect if you've been hacked, as well as preventive measures to help you avoid falling victim to hackers.

Here are their recommendations:

Smartphones Are a Goldmine for Hackers

Our smartphones store vast amounts of personal and sensitive information. Protecting your device is more important than ever.

Phone Hacking Is on the Rise

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting phones. But how can you tell if yours has been hacked?

Unexpected Battery Drain

If your battery suddenly drains much faster than usual, it could be a sign that malicious software is running in the background.

Strange Behavior

If your phone starts sending messages or making calls without your permission, someone may have gained unauthorized access.

Slow Performance

A sudden slowdown in your phone’s performance could indicate a malware infection trying to steal your data.

Unknown Apps

If you notice apps on your phone that you didn’t download, it’s a red flag that your device might be compromised.

Unexplained Data Usage

A significant spike in data usage without explanation may suggest that malware is sending your information to unauthorized sources.

How to Check If Your Phone Has Been Hacked

If you suspect your phone has been hacked, take the following steps:

Update Your Device

Make sure you’re running the latest version of your operating system and apps to close security loopholes.

Scan for Malware

Use a reputable antivirus app to scan for malware and other threats that may be hiding on your phone.

Review App Permissions

Check what permissions your apps have and remove any suspicious or unnecessary access.

Change Your Passwords

Update the passwords for important accounts, such as email and social media, to prevent unauthorized access.

Reset Your Phone

If all else fails, performing a factory reset can wipe your device clean and remove any malicious software.

Prevent Future Hacks

The best protection is prevention. Use strong passwords, avoid suspicious links, and keep your device updated.

Beware of Phishing Attempts

Don’t click on unknown links in emails, text messages, or social media – they could be phishing scams.

Stay Digitally Secure

Being targeted by hackers is never a pleasant experience, and it’s even worse if they steal your personal information or gain access to your bank accounts. By keeping our advice in mind, you’ll significantly strengthen your phone’s security and minimize the risk of being hacked.