ANALYSIS: Can your mobile phone get a virus? Yes – but you'll have to look carefully to see the signs
Similarly, Android users who install apps from outside the Google Play store increase their risk of installing malware. It's recommended all phone users stay on guard, as both Apple and Android are vulnerable to security risks.
That said, phones are generally better protected against viruses than personal computers. This is because software is usually installed through authorised app stores that vet each app . Also, in comparison to computers, phones are more secure as the apps are usually "sandboxed" in their own isolated environment – unable to access or interfere with other apps. This reduces the risk of infection or cross contamination from malware. However, no device is entirely immune.While it's not always easy to tell whether your phone is infected, it will exhibit some abnormal behaviours if it is.
If you do suspect a virus has infected your device, there are some steps you can take. First, to prevent further damage you'll need to remove the malware. Here are some simple troubleshooting steps:Use a reliable antivirus app to scan your phone for infections. Some reputable vendors offering paid and free protection services include Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, McAfee or Norton.
Ritesh Chugh is an associate professor of Information and Communications Technology at CQUniversity Australia. This piece first appeared on
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