Mobile security threats often manifest differently than traditional computer viruses. Rather than destroying hardware, mobile malware typically aims to serve intrusive advertisements (“adware”) or trick users into providing personal data.
While Android and iOS have different security architectures, both benefit from a routine security audit to identify and remove malicious software.
Android: Safe Mode & Play Protect
Because Android allows software installation from outside the official store, it is more susceptible to “drive-by” downloads and adware. This isn’t limited to external apps, though. Sometimes apps use excessive permissions or show aggressive ads such as popups on the home screen.
Uninstall Suspicious Apps
Select the suspicious app and tap Uninstall.
Review the list for apps with blank names, invisible icons, or generic names like “Cleaner” or “Flashlight” that you do not recognize. If unsure, it is best to skip to avoid tampering with system applications
Enable Google Play Protect Scan
Open the Google Play Store, tap your profile icon, and select Play Protect.
Tap Scan to verify the device is clean.
Enable Advanced Protection
On Android 16,
To open the Advanced Protection section
- Go to the Settings app:
- Tap Security & Privacy
- Under “Other settings,” tap Advanced Protection
Reboot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode disables all third-party applications, preventing malware from launching and allowing you to review your device’s base function to review any uncommon activity/applications and uninstall safely.
- Press and hold the Power button
- When the “Power Off” icon appears on the screen, long-press it
- Tap OK when asked to “Reboot to Safe Mode”
Once in Safe Mode, navigate to Settings > Apps > See all apps and review any suspicious or unknown apps.
To exit Safe Mode, just restart your phone.
Third-Party Scanning (Malwarebytes)
While “cleaner” apps are often ineffective, there are many security applications such as Malwarebytes’ Mobile Security app that help with mobile threat detection.
You can grab the Malwarebytes Mobile Security app from the Google Play Store and run a full system scan.
Unlike standard “boosters,” this tool specifically targets ransomware, adware, and banking trojans that may be hiding deep in system folders.
iPhone Security Scan Check
True malware on non-jailbroken iPhones is rare due to iOS’s “sandboxed” architecture. However, users often encounter deceptive calendar spams or malicious configuration profiles that mimic virus behavior.
Calendar Account Audit
If your calendar is full of events claiming your phone is infected, you could have subscribed to a spam calendar.
Go to Settings > Calendar > Accounts (or Settings > Apps > Calendar > Calendar Accounts in iOS 18).
Look for any account you do not recognize (e.g., “Events,” “Click Subscribe”).
Tap the account and select Delete Account.
Browser Hygiene
To remove lingering malicious scripts or pop-up loops:
- Go to Settings > Safari
- Tap Clear History and Website Data
Ensure Block Pop-ups is toggled ON.
Mobile security relies heavily on user vigilance. Avoiding third-party app stores on Android and refusing “Calendar Subscription” requests on web pop-ups are the most effective ways to keep a device secure.
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