Featured Image Credit: sarayut Thaneerat / Kinga Krzeminska / Getty
With our phones becoming far more advanced than they used to be, we're effectively carrying tiny versions of ourselves in our pockets.
From private pictures to personal messages, diaries to financials, a hacker getting into your phone could lead to devastating consequences.
There's been a recent uptick in cyber attacks, with one man having $26,000 stolen because he wasn't keeping an eye on his privacy.
The FBI has also warned Apple and Android users not to message between each other - instead opting for encrypted services like WhatsApp.
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As shared by Metro, there are seven signs to look out for that could be a clue your device has been hacked.
Battery problems are the first clue, and if you find your phone running hot or running out of juice quicker than it used to, there could be malware running in the background without you knowing. Malware can also be responsible for slow performance, so if you spot your phone crawling at a snail's pace, you better check what's installed.
The same can be said if you notice a spike in your data. Hackers are able to remotely hack into your phone (even through chargers) and could unexpectedly be using your data.
The fourth sign your phone might've been hacked is apps you don't recognize.
We know it's easy to fill your phone with apps every time you want to do some shopping or go on holiday, but make sure you're keeping an eye on the apps you've got installed.
Like with apps you don't remember installing, strange pop-ups could be a giveaway that your device has been compromised. It's the same for unusual activity like strange texts or calls that are being sent from unknown places.
Finally, if your phone suddenly turns off, it's the biggest sign yet that something has gone wrong.
If you think your device has been compromised, immediately take it to a professional who can likely check what's going on under the hood.
We've previously had a bit of help from an ethical hacker who advised people on how not to leave themselves vulnerable to attacks.
This includes keeping your software fully up to date, having a variety of different passwords instead of using just one, and avoiding public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Still, there are plenty of hackers who can get into your phone in seconds, and with it, have access to some of your most treasured details.
The main piece of advice is to remain vigilant, and if something seems suspicious, check it out. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry.
