1. Scan for Malware and Unwanted Apps
Begin by thoroughly checking your device for any malicious software or applications that may have been installed without your knowledge. Removing these can often resolve performance issues.
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Tap your profile icon (top right).
- Select Play Protect.
- Tap Scan. If any harmful apps are found, follow the on-screen instructions to uninstall them.
- Review your installed apps: Go to Settings → Apps → See all apps. Look for any unfamiliar applications and uninstall them by tapping the app name and selecting Uninstall. For Samsung devices, this path is usually Settings → Apps.
Tip
Regularly check your installed apps and their permissions to ensure only legitimate and necessary software is running on your device.
2. Clear Cache and Data for Problematic Apps
Malicious activity can sometimes corrupt app data or fill up your device's cache, leading to slowdowns. Clearing this data can free up resources and improve performance.
- Go to Settings → Apps → See all apps.
- Tap on the app you suspect is causing issues or has been compromised.
- Select Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear cache. If performance doesn't improve, you can also try Clear storage (this will delete all of the app's data, so back up anything important first).
- Repeat this process for any other suspicious or frequently used apps that might be affected.
Important
Clearing an app's storage will reset it to its initial state, requiring you to log in again and reconfigure any settings. Be sure to back up important data first.
3. Reset Network Settings
A compromised device might have altered your network settings, leading to slow internet speeds or connectivity issues. Resetting these settings can often restore normal network operations.
- Navigate to Settings → System → Reset options.
- Tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth (on Samsung, this is usually General management → Reset → Reset network settings).
- Confirm the action by tapping Reset settings and entering your PIN/pattern/password if prompted.
- Reconnect to your Wi-Fi networks and re-pair any Bluetooth devices, as this action will erase all saved network credentials.
Good to know
This action only resets network configurations; it does not delete any personal data or apps from your phone.
4. Perform a Factory Data Reset
If all other steps fail to resolve the performance issues or you suspect a deep-seated compromise, a factory data reset is the most comprehensive solution. This will erase all data and reset your phone to its original state.
- Backup your data! Ensure all important photos, videos, contacts, and documents are backed up to Google Drive, a cloud service, or a computer.
- Go to Settings → System → Reset options.
- Tap Erase all data (factory reset) (on Samsung, this is usually General management → Reset → Factory data reset).
- Read the warning carefully and tap Erase all data, then confirm by entering your PIN/pattern/password.
- Your phone will restart and begin the reset process. Once complete, you will need to set up your phone as if it were new.
- When restoring from a backup, be selective about what you restore, especially if you suspect the backup itself might be compromised.
Important
A factory reset deletes all data on your device. Only proceed with this step after you have verified that all critical information is safely backed up.
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JD
Written by
Jordan DicksonFounder, CyberSecurityGuides
Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.
Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers