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How to Remove Ad Malware from Android?

Published in Android Security 4 mins read

Removing ad malware from your Android device involves a multi-step process to identify and eliminate the source of the unwanted advertisements. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Steps to Remove Ad Malware

  1. Enable Google Play Protect:

    • Google Play Protect helps to scan your apps and device for harmful software.
    • How to enable: Open the Google Play Store app > Tap your profile icon > Play Protect > Turn on "Scan apps with Play Protect."

  2. Update Your Android Device:

    • Keep your device's operating system up-to-date to ensure you have the latest security patches.
    • How to update: Go to Settings > System > System update (The path might slightly differ based on your Android version and manufacturer).

  3. Identify and Remove Suspicious Apps:

    • Look for these signs:
      • Apps you don't remember installing.
      • Apps with unusual names or icons.
      • Apps requesting excessive permissions.
      • Apps that consume excessive battery or data.
    • How to uninstall:
      • Long-press the app icon on your home screen or app drawer, and select "Uninstall."
      • Alternatively, go to Settings > Apps > Find the suspicious app > Tap "Uninstall."

  4. Security Checkup:

    • Run a security checkup on your Google account to identify and address any potential security vulnerabilities.
    • Go to your Google Account settings and navigate to the Security section.
    • Google will provide personalized recommendations to improve your account security.

Additional Steps and Tips

  • Safe Mode: Boot your phone into Safe Mode. This mode only loads essential system apps, disabling third-party apps. If the ads disappear in Safe Mode, a third-party app is the culprit. To enter Safe Mode, usually you have to long-press the power button, then long-press the power off option until you see a prompt to boot into safe mode.

  • Review App Permissions: Go through your installed apps and review the permissions they have. Revoke unnecessary permissions for apps you suspect are causing the issue. You can generally find this in Settings > Apps > (App Name) > Permissions.

  • Use a Reputable Antivirus App: Install a trusted antivirus app from the Google Play Store and run a full system scan. Consider apps from well-known vendors like Bitdefender, Norton, or Malwarebytes. Keep in mind that antivirus apps on Android aren't as crucial as on Windows, but can still help identify some types of malware.

  • Check Browser Notifications: Ad malware can sometimes hijack your browser and push unwanted notifications.

    • Chrome: Open Chrome > Tap the three dots in the top right corner > Settings > Notifications > Disable notifications from websites you don't recognize or trust.

  • Factory Reset (Last Resort): If all else fails, a factory reset will erase all data on your device and restore it to its original factory settings. Back up your important data before performing a factory reset! To perform a factory reset, go to Settings > General Management > Reset > Factory data reset. (Again the exact location depends on your phone manufacturer and Android version.)

Why These Steps Work

Ad malware often gets onto your device through:

  • Bundled downloads: You download a legitimate app, but it comes bundled with adware.
  • Malicious websites: Visiting shady websites can trick you into installing malicious apps.
  • Compromised app stores: Downloading apps from unofficial app stores increases the risk of installing malware.

By following these steps, you're addressing the potential sources of ad malware and taking proactive measures to protect your device.

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