My Phone Was Hacked How do I Fix it for Free?

Even though our Android phones have lots of security features, someone might still hack them. When this happens, your private data like photos, messages, and passwords could be at risk. Luckily, there are several ways to get control of your Android phone back without spending any money.

Signs Your Android Phone Has Been Hacked

Look for these signs to see if your phone is hacked:

1. Weird Ads or Content: Random pop-ups or ads.
2. Strange Apps: Apps you didn’t install.
3. Odd Behavior: Your phone makes calls or sends messages by itself.
4. High Data Use: Sudden spike in data use and battery drain.
5. Slow Performance: Your phone is slow, freezes, or restarts on its own.

For more detailed information on recognizing these signs, check out our article on 7 Signs That Your Phone is Hacked.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disconnect from the Internet and Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data to stop further hacking.

Method 1: Reboot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode can help you find out if a third-party app is causing the problem.

1. Hold the power button until the shutdown screen appears.
2. Hold the shutdown icon until Safe Mode appears.
3. Tap Safe Mode. Your phone will restart in Safe Mode.

If your phone works fine in Safe Mode, a third-party app might be the problem.

Method 2: Delete Suspicious Applications

Remove any apps you don’t recognize.

1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Look for strange apps.
3. Uninstall suspicious apps.

Method 3: Disable Administrator Access

Hackers use apps with administrator access to control your phone. Turn off this access.

1. Go to Settings > Biometrics and Security.
2. Tap on Additional security settings.
3. Select Device Administrators.
4. Turn off any suspicious apps.

Method 4: Change Your Google Account Password

If your phone is hacked, your Google account might be too. Change your password.

1. Open your Google Account settings.
2. Select Security.
3. Choose Password and change it.

Make sure your new password is strong.

Method 5: Install an Anti-Malware Application

Anti-malware apps can help remove bad software.

1. Search for good anti-malware apps on Google Play Store.
2. Install and run a scan.
3. Remove any detected threats.

Method 6: Update Your Device

Update your phone and apps to keep them secure.

1. Go to Settings > System > Software update.
2. Check for updates and install them.

Method 7: Restore Factory Settings

If nothing else works, reset your phone. This will erase all data, so back up important info first.

1. Go to Settings > General Management.
2. Select Reset > Factory data reset.
3. Confirm and reset your device.

Method 8: Seek Professional Help

If your phone is still hacked, take it to a repair center for help.

Preventing Future Hacks

To prevent future hacks, follow these tips:

• Install Antivirus Software: Use good antivirus apps.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.
• Download Apps from Trusted Sources: Use the Google Play Store.
• Update Regularly: Keep your software and apps updated.
• Use Strong Passwords: Don’t reuse passwords.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add extra security to your accounts.

Conclusion

Getting hacked is scary, but these steps can help you fix your Android phone for free. Stay alert and use these tips to keep your phone safe.