How do I use the Smart Manager application to check for malware or viruses?

Samsung released Smart Manager in 2015, which helps users scan and optimise their smart phones in four areas: Battery, Storage, RAM and Security.

The below article will show you how to use the Security function of Smart Manager to keep your device secure.

Smart Manager automatically scans regularly for malicious software and provides an anti-malware solution through a partnership with Intel Security.

You can also run an ad hoc scan at any time by following the below steps:

If Samsung Smart Manager detects malware on your device, you will see screens similar to the below.
 

If you have a third-party antivirus app installed on your device, check the app developer's website to familiarise yourself with the expected notification you will see if that app detects a problem.

Fake 'your device is infected' notifications

Be aware that unscrupulous advertisers will often use 'your device is infected' pop-ups to persuade you to click on them. These can be malware or phishing attempts, but they can also be trying to persuade you to download an app or visit their website.

These pop-ups will usually turn up while you are browsing the Internet. Signs that they are not genuine include continual buzzing, bright flashing lights or garish text, and lots of exclamation marks (!!!!).

If you are unsure if a malware notification is genuine, close your Internet browser or the app without clicking further, then run the Smart Manager security scan or your anti-virus app as per the above steps.

I think I have a virus. My device is acting up

If your device is running slowly, it could be down to a troublesome app, or to low storage space. You can try clearing your cache or deleting apps you don't need.

If you think you have a virus, you should restart your device in Safe Mode to see if the problem comes from an app.

Safe Mode runs your device with default settings. It does not reset or delete any information from your device.

To use Safe Mode:

You can exit Safe Mode by restarting your device.
 

If the issues stop while you're running Safe Mode, the problem is likely due to an app. Restart your phone and remove any recently added applications.

If your issues continue, you may wish to consider resetting your device to factory settings to remove the malware. Click here to view steps showing you how to perform a factory reset.

If you're experiencing unusual behaviour on Samsung mobiles, tablets or wearables, you can send us an error report or ask us a question in the Samsung Members app.
 

This allows us to a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymised and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about sending an error report through the Samsung Members app.