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Most people know that computers can have malware,but did you know your cell phone and tablet is also vulnerable?

Our devices contain a tremendous amount of confidential information,including the contents of our text and email communications,multimedias,as well as access to various accounts via pre-logged-in apps.It is imperative,therefore,to keep the devices safe from hackers,and to take immediate corrective action if one's phone is breached.
If you believe your phone or tablet has been compromised,it is critical to take action quickly,but most people don’t recognize when it happens.

Below are some symptoms to look out for
1. Slow performance
Malware running in the background can impact the performance of your device.

2. Bad battery life
Android users have a good idea about how long their battery should last.Malware can give itself away when batteries mysteriously drain quicker than usual.
Also,if your device runs physically “hotter” than before.

3. Data spikes
Often times Malware can be detected by checking your data usage per app.Significant changes in your download or upload patterns could be a sign that someone has control over your device.If you installed the app from a third party appstore you can try deleting the app and reinstalling it from a more trusted source--but if there is malware on your device,doing so may not always fix the problem.

4. Dropped calls and disruptions
During times when you have good signal strength,if you experience calls being dropped or if you hear strange noises occur during the phone conversation.

5. Your device is sending or receiving strange text messages and emails
If your friends or colleagues report seeing strange text messages and emails that you didn’t send,it may be related to a breach.

6. New apps
If you have a new app that you don’t remember installing,it may mean it has been hacked.Sophisticated malware can take over an entire device and install malicious apps to track what you are doing, access your GPS or your personal information.
Some apps may also stop working properly or suddenly stop working. This may be a sign the malware is interfering with the apps’ functionality.

7. Websites appear differently
In some cases,if websites appear slightly different it could be in indicator of malicious activity.Mobile devices are constantly connected to networks,and businesses are seeing more attacks where someone is manipulating traffic between the device and the Internet.

8. Unexpected charges
If you spot strange charges on your bill,give the operator a call and ask what they are for. Some free apps may have you submit an agreement that says you will subscribe to an SMS subscription.

9. Pop-ups
Just like on computers,some mobile-device malware produces pop-up windows asking the user to perform various actions.If you are seeing pop-ups,beware.

10. Data breaches
Of course,if you experience a data leak you should always check to determine the source of the problem.

11. Your device is attempting to access "bad" sites
If you use your device on a network that blocks access to known problematic sites and networks and you find out that it was trying to access such sites without your knowledge, your device may be infected.

What you should do if you suspect your device was hacked?
Run mobile anti-malware/antivirus- software(preferably run more than one vendor's offering)and remove any apps that you don't recognize.If possible,wipe the device,restore factory settings,and reinstall apps from trusted appstores.Obviously,use internet security software on your device going forward.If you are concerned that the device has been rooted by malware,show it to a professional.

http://wate.com/2017/03/13/10-signs-your-smartphone-or-tablet-has-been-hacked/