Many of these applications can contain malicious software, such as adware, spyware or even Trojans, which can make the mobile phone perform unwanted actions. Some malicious applications may try to modify the behaviour of the device, although modern systems limit many of these actions. However, in serious cases, they can force advertisements, close applications or alter settings.
Installing an application without checking the permissions it requests can be risky, as some apps can access more information than necessary. That’s why we should always find out a little more and not just install apps without knowing anything about them.
According to Zmóviles, it is important to detect malicious applications with these steps:
The presence of malicious applications on the device can have serious consequences, such as:
- Theft of personal information: bank details, passwords, private photos and other data can be exposed.
- Performance: these apps use up the device’s resources, such as battery and processing power, causing it to run more slowly.
- Financial loss: Applications that have access to banking data can carry out unauthorised transactions.
- Detecting these applications in time is crucial to protect both personal information and the proper functioning of the device.
Verify app permissions
One of the most common ways to detect malicious apps is to verify the permissions they request. Malicious apps often ask for unnecessary permissions for their functions. However, some legitimate apps require broad permissions, so it is always advisable to review them and assess whether they are justified.
Steps to verify permissions on Android:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Applications and select an app.
- Go to Permissions and check if the app requests permissions not related to its main function.
Steps to verify permissions on iOS:
- Open Settings and select Privacy.
- Go to Permissions and check which apps have access to the camera, microphone, location, etc.
Observe the behaviour of the device
Malicious apps can cause abnormal behaviour on the device. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you may have malware:
- Battery draining quickly: Malicious apps tend to run in the background, consuming more battery power.
- Usage: Check your data usage; an unexpected increase could be a sign.
- Constant pop-up adverts: Malicious apps can show adverts even if you are not actively using the app.
- Apps that appear without being downloaded: If you see new apps that you don’t remember installing, it’s a clear sign of malware.
Check battery performance
On Android and iOS devices, you can check which apps are using the most battery. If you see an unknown app using an excessive amount of battery, it could be a sign of malicious activity.
Steps to check battery consumption on Android:
- Go to Settings and select Battery.
- Check the apps and see which ones use the most power.
Steps to check battery consumption on iOS:
- Go to Settings and select Battery.
- Check the percentage of battery used by each application
- Investigate unknown applications
If you see new applications that you don’t remember installing, check if they came from the manufacturer or a system update. If this is not the case, they could be a sign of malware and it is advisable to investigate their origin
