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Tom’s Guide
Tom’s Guide
Technology
Kaycee Hill

EXPLAINED: 3 ways to remove a virus from your phone without paying for apps | Rare Historical Photos

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

When your phone starts acting strange: draining battery rapidly, overheating, or showing apps you don't remember downloading — a virus could be the culprit. Malware targets smartphones to steal personal information, rack up charges, or simply disrupt normal function.

Before you panic or pay out for antivirus software, try these free removal methods first. Most phone viruses can be eliminated through basic troubleshooting steps that take just minutes to complete. Android phones face higher risk due to their open-source nature, but iPhones aren't immune either. Here's how to check for viruses and remove them without spending money on apps.

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