You're not alone if malware has ever made your phone glitchy or your PC unbearably slow. With so many apps, tools, and conflicting advice floating around, some telling you to reset your device, others pushing complex antivirus software, it's hard to know what actually works. Many users hesitate, worried about losing data or making things worse. That's why I've put together this straightforward, device-specific guide to help you wipe out malware without stress. Whether you're on Android, iPhone, or PC, let's make your device clean and fast again safely.
Part 1: How to Get Rid of Malware on Android
Android devices are popular targets for malware, often through shady apps, infected downloads, or malicious links. Thankfully, removing it doesn't require a tech degree. Below, I'll walk you through the best way to do it step by step, focusing on ease, effectiveness, and safety.
Step 1: Shut Down Your Device
Turning off your phone is the first defense. It prevents the malware from running or spreading further.
It sounds simple, but this one step can freeze suspicious activity right away. It's like pulling the plug before things get worse.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode
Press and hold the Power button.
Long-press "Power Off" until "Safe Mode" appears.
Tap to confirm.
Safe Mode disables third-party apps, making it easier to isolate and remove the malicious ones.
This mode is a lifesaver. It puts your phone in a "safe bubble", so malware can't fight back while you're removing it.
Step 3: Locate the Malicious App
Open Settings > Apps
Or, if you see a suspicious app icon, tap and hold it to open App Info.
Tip: Look for apps you didn't install or ones with generic icons and odd names.
Step 4: Uninstall the App
Tap Uninstall > Confirm.
If the button is grayed out, don't worry, just head to the next step.
Step 5: Revoke Admin Rights
Go to Settings > Security > Device Admin Apps
Disable admin privileges for the suspicious app
Now go back and try uninstalling again
Some malware tries to act like a system app, it hides in plain sight by locking down admin rights. Disabling those clears the way for removal.
Step 6: Scan with Trusted Security Software
Even after manual removal, it's smart to run a full scan with a reputable app like McAfee Mobile Security.
Install the app from Google Play
Launch and run a Full Scan
I've tried a few tools, and McAfee stands out for its deep scanning without bogging down your phone's performance.
Part 2: How to Get Rid of Malware on iPhone
iPhones are generally more secure than Android devices, thanks to Apple's closed ecosystem. But that doesn't mean they're immune. Pop-up ads, sketchy profiles, or weird app behavior? Yep, those can all be signs of malware. Let's clean it up with steps that are simple, effective, and (mostly) non-invasive.
Step 1: Restart the iPhone
Hold the power button until the slider appears
Slide to power off
Wait a few seconds, then power it back on
You'd be surprised how many issues a quick reboot solves. It clears temporary bugs and resets rogue behavior from certain apps.
Step 2: Delete Suspicious Apps
Tap and hold the app icon
Select Remove App > Delete App
Look out for apps you didn't install, or ones that suddenly changed behavior (like sending spam notifications).
Tip: If you're not sure about an app, check its reviews on the App Store. A flood of 1-star warnings? That's a red flag.
Step 3: Clear Browsing History and Data
Go to Settings > Safari
Tap Clear History and Data
I've seen sketchy redirects vanish after this. If you've ever tapped a weird link, this step is a must.
Step 4: Update iOS
Go to Settings > General > Software Update
Tap Download and Install if available
Apple frequently releases security patches. Keeping your system updated is your best passive defense.
Step 5: Remove Suspicious Profiles
Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management
Tap and delete any unfamiliar profiles
Malware sometimes uses configuration profiles to sneak in settings or redirects. If you see something odd here, delete it.
Step 6: Run a Security Scan (Optional)
Download Bitdefender Mobile Security or similar
Run a scan to check for hidden threats
Note: iOS doesn't give deep access to third-party apps, but scanning can still help catch risky content or warn you about phishing.
Step 7: Perform a Factory Reset (Only if Nothing Else Works)
Backup your data to iCloud
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone
Tap Erase All Content and Settings
This is the nuclear option. It's effective, but make sure you back up first. I've done it once and restored my phone like new.
Part 3: How to Get Rid of Malware on PC
PCs are prime targets for malware, whether it's from suspicious email attachments, fake software downloads, or unsafe websites. But with the right tools and steps, you can clean your system and get things running smoothly again. Let's break it down.
Step 1: Run Sophos Scan and Clean
Download Sophos Scan and Clean from the official website
Install and run a full system scan
Sophos is lightweight and doesn't interfere with other antivirus tools. It's one of the fastest, no-fuss ways to catch sneaky malware.
Step 2: Run Emsisoft Emergency Kit
Go to Emsisoft's official site and download the Emergency Kit
Unzip the folder and run EmergencyKitScanner.exe
Click Scan & Clean
Tip: It's portable, so no installation is needed, great for USB rescue situations.
Step 3: Use Microsoft Defender Offline
Open Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection
Click Scan Options > Microsoft Defender Offline Scan
Restart and let it scan outside of Windows
This is a deeper scan, perfect for malware that hides during normal operation. I use it when things feel "off" but don't show up in standard scans.
Step 4: Create Microsoft Defender Offline USB
Use another PC to download the tool from Microsoft's site
Save it to a USB or DVD
Boot the infected PC from that USB/DVD and run the scan
Tip: This is useful if the malware blocks your system's built-in scans or prevents Windows from booting properly.
Step 5: Use Alternative Rescue Tools
Options include:
Kaspersky Rescue Disc
ESET SysRescue Live
Bitdefender Rescue Environment
Burn any of these to a USB or disc and boot your PC with it.
I've used Bitdefender Rescue before—very user-friendly and it gave me full peace of mind. These are like calling in the malware SWAT team.
Step 6: Run Farbar Recovery Scan Tool (FRST)
Download FRST from BleepingComputer.com
Run the tool, follow instructions, and use it only if you're guided by an expert (such as from online forums)
Note: This one is for advanced users. FRST is powerful, but misusing it could cause more harm than good.
Part 4: Work Safely with WPS Office Without Malware
When it comes to office software, security often takes a backseat—until malware strikes. That's why I'm a fan of WPS Office. Not only is it lightweight and feature-rich, but it's also designed with strong built-in security to keep your files (and your system) safe.
Why WPS Office Is a Safe Choice
Unlike bloated software that can slow down your device and leave vulnerabilities, WPS keeps things tight:
Encrypted document protection: Sensitive files? WPS lets you lock them with passwords and encryption.
Lightweight performance: It runs smoothly even on low-end devices, meaning fewer system freezes and lower chances of malware exploits.
No shady add-ons or bloatware: When downloaded from wps.com, you get a clean installation with no surprises.
I've personally used WPS on multiple devices—even older PCs—and not once have I encountered a security issue. The interface is smooth, and there's zero fluff. Just what you need, minus the risk.
How to Use WPS for Malware-Free Work
Step 1: Download WPS Office from the official site
Go to www.wps.com and install the latest version. Avoid downloading from third-party sites to eliminate malware risk.
Step 2: Use document encryption
Open any document > Click Menu > Document Encryption > Set password
This ensures only you can open or edit the file.
Step 3: Enable privacy settings
Go to Menu > Options > Security and explore options to block suspicious macros, limit external data sources, and clean metadata.
These settings are gold. I always enable document encryption when handling sensitive content, it's just smart business.
Part 5: FAQs
How can I quickly get rid of malware?
Use your device's built-in security settings or trusted third-party tools like McAfee, Bitdefender, or Sophos. In most cases, Safe Mode and a quick uninstall can do the trick.
Why is my device slow after a malware infection?
Malware hogs system resources, RAM, CPU, and storage, causing performance drops. Once removed, most devices regain speed instantly.
What should I do if I can't remove the malware?
If basic methods fail, try rescue tools or a factory reset. For stubborn infections, professional malware removal services are worth considering.
Summary
Whether you're on Android, iPhone, or PC, malware can sneak in when you least expect it, but it doesn't have to stick around. With a combination of safe modes, security apps, and smart habits, you can wipe it out and get your device back in shape quickly.
And when it comes to office work, WPS Office adds a layer of security you can trust. Its encrypted documents, clean install, and efficient performance help you work confidently without worrying about malware tagging along.
