There is a common misconception that there are no viruses for the Android operating system, but in reality it is not: Android is written on the kernel Linux, for which many viruses have been created. In this essay, we will consider in detail the question of how to check Android for viruses.
Verification methods
There are many ways to check your system for viruses. Let's review some of them.
to the content
Via PC
Before you check Android for viruses through your computer, you need to connect the gadget to it. Mode 'USB Debugging' must be selected. Then start the antivirus installed on the computer, select the 'PC scan' and 'Removable media scan' modes.
Unfortunately, this method does not help to identify the threat in all cases.
to the content
Antivirus from GooglePlay
To find out if there are viruses on Android, you can use one of the antiviruses that can be found on GooglePlay. Paid and free versions of them can be found here. Before that, you need to do a few manipulations. Go to 'Settings', then 'Applications'.
Select the browser you are using.
Next 'Install' and 'Clear cache'. After that, you need to restart the device, run the installed antivirus and conduct a scan.
This will help clean Android from viruses.
to the content
Online services
Dedicated online services that scan applications in real time for malware. The principle of its operation is very simple. It is necessary to upload the ARC file from the computer to the service through a special menu and press 'Startanalisys'.
After a while, the system will provide a file report.
Unregistered users will only be able to upload files up to 7 MB. This is one of the best ways to protect Android from viruses.
to the content
Checking Android for viruses: Video
to the content
How to keep yourself safe
Many users are wondering if you can create a virus on Android yourself. In order to do this, you need to have an understanding of programming and knowledge of the principles of the operating shell. In addition, when deciding to create malware, do not forget that it is a criminal offense. But don't be intimidated by viruses or malware. On Android there are many applications to protect your device, so-called antiviruses, in addition, you can protect yourself with the method of additional manipulations or a precautionary measure to ensure reliability up to data transmission via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
to the content
Variety of viruses
What are the viruses on Android? Most of them are similar to “Trojans” from computers: when they get to the device, all user actions are recorded in a special hidden file. Thus, attackers gain access to passwords, credit card numbers and other confidential user data.
Other viruses, getting into the system, start sending paid SMS until the money on the user's account runs out or goes into negative territory.
A special subtype is spam programs that constantly generate annoying ads. The last type that is worth mentioning, and about which little is known, are viruses embedded in the entertainment systems of cars running on Android. In theory, they can cause various vehicle systems to malfunction, but there have not been such precedents yet.
Scanning Android for viruses allows you to eliminate most of them. But you can download applications only from official sources, but if there is a need to download something from another location, pre-scan the file for viruses. Also, do not visit sites of questionable content.
Keep your antivirus updated and periodically scan your system.
All this will reduce the risk of malware infection to almost zero.