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On a supported Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet, open Settings > Device care > App protection > Scan phone. Samsung calls this a scan for security threats. Menu names and availability differ by model, software version, carrier, and region, so the path may look different on your device.
How to scan a Samsung Galaxy for viruses
- Open Settings.
- Tap Device care. On some versions, the menu is called Battery and device care.
- Tap App protection or Device protection.
- Tap Scan phone and follow any on-screen instructions.
Samsung’s US instructions use App protection > Scan phone, while another support path lists Battery and device care > Device protection > Scan phone. Samsung also notes that settings and screen layouts can vary by model and software version. See Samsung’s malware protection guidance and its Galaxy diagnostics instructions.
If the scan option is missing
In Settings, search for Device care or Device protection. If neither search result leads to a scan, check Samsung support for the instructions matching your exact Galaxy model, software version, and region. Older devices may use a different route, such as Smart Manager; Samsung UK documents that option in its Smart Manager guide. Do not assume a menu path from another model or region will appear on yours.
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The built-in scan checks for security threats, but Samsung’s support material does not describe its detection methodology or promise that it identifies every threat. A clean result is not proof that a device is free of all malware. The reviewed Samsung guidance provides no quantified detection rate or infection probability, so a percentage cannot be inferred from it.
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Samsung says it does not recommend third-party anti-malware products. For a routine check, start with the built-in feature rather than installing an app prompted by an alarming pop-up.
What to do if your phone behaves suspiciously
Be cautious with warning pop-ups
Fake alerts can imitate phone warnings and urge you to download more apps. Do not install an app or follow a pop-up’s link just because it claims a virus was found. Close the alert and use the phone’s Settings or official support guidance instead.
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Review recently installed apps
Unwanted ads, freezing, or slow performance after installing third-party apps can be a reason to check for suspicious or unauthorized apps. Review Settings > Apps for apps you do not recognize. If you suspect a third-party app, Samsung’s regional guidance describes using Safe mode to temporarily disable third-party apps, then reviewing and uninstalling the suspect app. Safe mode entry steps and key combinations vary by model; follow the instructions for your device in Samsung Saudi Arabia’s malware protection guide. Samsung also provides troubleshooting steps for a Galaxy that is slow, freezes, or displays ads after installing third-party apps.
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Reduce the risk of malware
- Install software updates. Keep your device software and operating system updated using the available update options for your model.
- Use trusted app stores. Prefer Google Play Store or Galaxy Store, and be cautious about installing apps from other sources.
- Review permissions. Before granting access, consider whether the permission makes sense for what the app does.
- Consider Auto Blocker. Where available, it can block unauthorized app sources, USB cable commands, certain software updates over USB, and malware images in messaging apps. Availability and the effects of Maximum restrictions vary.
These measures are described in Samsung’s US malware guidance and Samsung’s regional protection guidance.
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