How to check if your Android has been hacked

With Android now ubiquitous, the popular operating system is also the favourite target for miscreants. While the chances of a hack are not very high, in case your phone is, here’s how you can tell.

If there’s a sudden increase in the number of pop-up ads on your device, especially ones from unknown sources, you could be in trouble.

While the Play Store has millions of apps, there’s no way to get an app on your phone without your knowledge which means if you find an app you don’t remember installing, you’ve been hacked.

Another instance when hacking becomes obvious is when you install a new app and it disappears from your app drawer or your homescreen, that could mean the app is already on your phone and was not put there by you.

A sudden dip in battery life, especially on a new phone is indicative of someone meddling with your device. Get it checked out.

If there’s an increase in mobile data consumption, and your usage doesn’t tally up, be sure to check with your service provider and then with a device expert.

In cases where you are unable to update your phone or the apps on it are crashing constantly and refusing to update, you could have malware on your device.