The main types
- Trojans pretend to be a useful app.
- Ransomware locks files or the device and demands payment.
- Adware shows unwanted ads, sometimes aggressively.
- Stalkerware and spyware secretly watch what you do.
- Banking trojans try to capture banking logins or intercept one-time passwords.
How phones usually get infected
- Installing an app file (APK) sent over chat or SMS. See fake APK scams.
- Apps from unofficial stores.
- Granting powerful permissions to an app that should not need them. See risky Android permissions.
- Tapping links in phishing messages.
Staying safe
Install apps from Google Play where possible, keep Android updated, leave Install unknown apps switched off, and think twice before giving any app Accessibility access. An antivirus adds another layer by checking apps as they are installed.
Frequently asked questions
Is malware only a problem on Windows?
No. Android is targeted too, mostly through apps installed from outside the Play Store and through phishing.
Can a website infect my phone just by opening it?
This is rare on an updated phone. The usual risk is being tricked into installing something or entering details.
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