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220-1202 · Question #224

A user installed a free application from an unofficial application store. Now, their smartphone displays random pop-ups and shows increased data usage. Additionally, the user cannot perform certain…

The correct answer is A. Perform a factory reset. A factory reset is the first step because the device is showing clear signs of malware infection from an unverified app. Resetting the smartphone removes malicious software and restores the device to a secure, clean state.

Submitted by helene.fr· Mar 30, 2026

Question

A user installed a free application from an unofficial application store. Now, their smartphone displays random pop-ups and shows increased data usage. Additionally, the user cannot perform certain actions such as opening banking applications or updating their OS. Which of the following should the user do first to address the security issues on their smartphone?

Options

  • APerform a factory reset.
  • BClear the device cache.
  • CContact the manufacturer's support line.
  • DChange all passwords on the device.

How the community answered

(48 responses)
  • A
    79% (38)
  • B
    10% (5)
  • C
    6% (3)
  • D
    4% (2)

Explanation

A factory reset is the first step because the device is showing clear signs of malware infection from an unverified app. Resetting the smartphone removes malicious software and restores the device to a secure, clean state.

Topics

#Mobile security#Malware removal#Smartphone troubleshooting#Factory reset

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