IF you're worried you've downloaded malware to your Android device, there are several red flags you should watch out for.
Knowing these danger signs can help you spot a problem even if you think all your recent downloads have been legitimate.
If your Android device isn't working as it should, it can be a sign that there is malware on your deviceCredit: GettyA few of the warning signs were recently highlighted in an Android Police article.
The first red flag on the Android Police list is "frequent app crashes."
If you download a new app that keeps crashing, it's worth deleting it.
Millions of Android owners could slash 'vampire bills' – how to save moneyApps that used to work fine and are now crashing and not working as expected can be a sign that there is malware on your device.
The same can be said for increased data usage that isn't connected to anything you're doing.
Apps infected with malware can use up your data while running in the background.
You might not notice until you end up with a costly bill at the end of the month.
Spam texts are another bad sign of a malware attack.
Certain malware can send texts from your device containing malicious links that bait your contacts into clicking on them.
Your battery draining quickly, an overheating device, and new apps randomly appearing on your device are also red flags that suggest malware is present.
Constantly overheating your phone will eventually destroy the battery so it's worth trying to avoid this as much as possible.
You should also watch out for apps that are flooding your phone.
Millions of iPhone and Android phone owners must check settings immediatelyGoogle can detect malware on Android devices and will send you a warning if it spots it.
If you see the message "You have been signed out for your protection," you can follow Google's steps to securing your device.