Do these first
- Open Settings, Apps, find the app and tap it. Look at what permissions it holds: accessibility, device admin, SMS, contacts and overlay are the risky ones.
- Tap Force stop, then Uninstall. If Uninstall is greyed out, go to Settings, Security, Device admin apps, switch the app off and try again.
- If it came as a file from WhatsApp or a link, delete the file from Downloads too.
- Restart the phone and check that the app does not come back.
Then do these
- Check Settings, Install unknown apps and switch it off for every app that does not need it.
- Change the passwords of accounts you used on the phone since the app appeared, starting with email and banking.
- Look through your bank and UPI history for payments you did not make.
- Turn on Google Play Protect (Play Store, profile, Play Protect) and run a scan.
What not to do
- Do not open the app to "see what it does".
- Do not turn off Play Protect because someone asked you to.
- Do not install apps from links or chat files.
Where to report
If the app caused a loss of money, call 1930 and report at cybercrime.gov.in. Keep a screenshot of the app and its permissions.
How Safeavio Sentinel can help
- Phone scan: reviews installed apps, requested permissions, risky settings and apps that look like copies of other apps.
- Link check: paste the link the app came from and read the verdict.
- The portal shows the scan result so a family member can help.
Questions people ask
What if I cannot uninstall the app?
It may hold device admin rights. Switch that off in Settings, Security, Device admin apps, then uninstall. If that fails, restart in safe mode and uninstall from there.
Can a normal app be dangerous?
Yes, if it asks for permissions it does not need, such as accessibility or SMS for a flashlight app. Remove apps that ask for more than they should.
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Use only the number printed on your card, passbook or the official app of your bank or company.
Check it before you tap or pay
Safeavio Sentinel is a made-in-India Android app: paste a message or link, or scan a QR code, and get a plain verdict with the reasons. It helps you spot a scam; it does not promise to stop every one.
Download for AndroidHow to get startedWhat the app does
Google Play listing: coming soon. Today the signed APK is on safeavio.com/download. Android 7.0 or later.
More: all recovery steps · safety guides · Safeavio compared with a traditional antivirus