Christian Espinosa, a cybersecurity expert, has highlighted the tell-tale signs that your phone might have been hacked. If you notice any of these red flags, it’s a strong indicator that your device’s security may have been compromised.
One common warning sign is a significant decrease in your phone’s battery life. Espinosa explains that if your battery is draining faster than usual, even with minimal usage, it could be a result of malware. Checking your battery settings for any suspicious apps and promptly deleting any unfamiliar ones is advised.
Another key indicator of a possible hack is a sudden and abnormal increase in data usage, especially when you are not actively using your phone. Espinosa warns that this unusual data consumption could be attributed to malicious software covertly using up your data. If you notice a spike in your data bill or usage, it’s essential to investigate further as it could signify a security breach.
Additionally, an influx of intrusive pop-up advertisements can signal a security threat. Espinosa points out that excessive pop-ups can not only be irritating but can also impact your phone’s performance and hint at a potential hack. It is recommended to review your recent downloads and installed apps, deleting any suspicious ones to mitigate risks.
Lastly, if your phone’s performance begins to slow down or experiences frequent crashes, it may be infected with malware. Espinosa emphasises that malware can cause your phone to become sluggish and unresponsive. To address a slow phone, he suggests measures such as closing apps, clearing cache and data, updating software, removing unused apps, restarting your phone, or resetting it as a last resort.
By being vigilant and recognising these signs, users can take proactive steps to safeguard their devices and data from potential security breaches. Monitoring your phone for unusual behaviour and promptly addressing any concerns can help prevent cyber threats and maintain the integrity of your device’s security.