What Is a Keylogger?

A keylogger is software that tracks your keystrokes.

Smartphone keyloggers can be even more sinister than desktop versions because phone security is easy to overlook.

Typing on a smartphone keyboard

Many people miss the need for phone security because iPhones dont necessarily need antivirus apps.

Thats because theyhave strong built-in protections, and iOSs design makes many attacks unlikely unless the phone is jailbroken.

However, unlikely doesnt mean impossible, and Androids are more susceptible to attack.

person typing on computer keys

That said, keyloggershave a few telltale signsto watch out for.

kickstart your phone if you notice any of these symptoms.

If that doesnt fix the issue, it could be a keylogger.

Screenshot of a Google Protect Play Scan before and after the scan.

Google Play Protect Scancan scan for dangerous appson Android to identify the malware.

Your phone will then scan for malicious code and unknown apps, recommending next steps if it finds anything.

The easiest way is to use whatever security app you use to scan for the malware.

Screenshot of a Google Play Protect Scan during the scan.

After the scan detects the keylogger, it should give you the option to remove the software.

Do that and reset your phone afterward.

it’s possible for you to also look for and remove suspicious apps manually.

Screenshot of an Avast smart scan prior to running.

Anything you didnt download from an official app store falls under that umbrella.

The same goes for any app where you notice dramatically dropped performance after downloading it.

If the problem arose after installing a certain app, delete it.

Screenshot of an Avast smart scan while running.

you’re free to try a factory reset if neither of these steps works.

The reset should remove any noncritical data, including the keylogger.

Its important to apply the same principles to your smartphone.

Screenshot of an Avast smart scan after running.

Phones may have stronger built-in protections than many computers, but they can still be vulnerable.

A man in a blue shirt sitting at a table and typing on a smartphone