My Android’s contracted a virus: Diagnostic 1/2

Don't think that having an Android phone makes you immune to viruses. The reality is very different. This belief leads you to drop your guard, making you more exposed to contracting a virus. You should be aware that it is relatively easy for hackers to access your Android, particularly via the internet, and they will not hesitate to infect you with a dangerous type of virus called "malware" (malicious software).

Malware is ferocious. It can target each of your devices, particularly those connected to the internet. It is capable of injecting its malicious code without leaving a trace. It is designed to steal passwords, private information, account numbers, etc. It can also track the user's location without leaving any evidence of its presence.

A study carried out by Kaspersky Lab has revealed that more than 144,000 new malware programs designed for mobile devices were detected in 2013. That is more than double the number detected in 2012. And 98% of those malware programs target Android devices. 

Over the years, antivirus technologies have improved the protection available against malicious software. However, hackers and inventors of bugs have also evolved at the same time, increasing the impact of their viruses and the methods used to infiltrate our phones. Previously, it was very difficult to detect the presence of a virus. Fortunately for us, certain symptoms can now alert us and prompt us to resolve the problem quickly before the situation becomes more serious.

Your Android's speed changes. It begins by operating more slowly, taking longer to open or download files, particularly photos, audio files, videos, etc. Applications will become corrupted until they stop working altogether.

The phone's settings change automatically without you doing anything. Sometimes, new applications are added and/or open on their own. You may hear new types of sounds (chimes, beeps and strange noises) which were not in your phone before.

The amount of your bills may change. Check the average number of texts sent per month and the volume of data used. Most of the time, this happens because text messages are used by viruses to automatically send messages to people, either from your address book or strangers, which will have an impact on your account. Viruses can also use emails or files to send information. 

"Why does my phone's battery run out so quickly?" This is a common question. Malware uses its own programs, which run in the background and drain your battery faster.

Malware can affect your calls. Telephone conversations may be cut off or less audible. This can happen as the result of a hardware problem with your phone, but can also be caused by a virus. 

All your sensitive data may be transferred to another directory. You may notice this if you are familiar with the tree structure of your files and directories. 

Viruses can seriously harm your data. In a second article, we will provide you with a range of solutions to prevent you from falling victim to cyber-criminals.  

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