How to Check if Your Android Phone Has Malware without Factory Reset

1. Review Installed Apps

• Go to Settings > Apps
• Look for suspicious apps that you don’t remember installing
• Uninstall any unknown or suspicious apps

2. Check Apps with Administrator Privileges

• Go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Other Security Settings
• Check "Device Admin Apps"
• Disable privileges for any apps that are not trustworthy

3. Run an Antivirus Scan

• Download a reliable antivirus app from the Google Play Store
• Perform a full scan of your device
• Remove any threats detected

4. Use Google Play Protect

• Open the Google Play Store
• Tap your profile picture > Play Protect
• Run a security scan

5. Observe Suspicious Behavior

• Slow performance or frequent errors
• Excessive battery or data consumption
• Unexpected ads or changes in settings
• Apps that install themselves

6. Keep Your System Updated

• Install the latest Android security updates

7. Avoid Untrusted Sources

• Only download apps from the official Google Play Store

If you suspect a severe infection, consider performing a factory reset of the device as a last resort.