Question:

Could you provide your expert opinion on a potential security issue with my Galaxy S10? On two separate occasions, while using the phone at night, it unexpectedly played the “Who’s That Pokémon?” intro followed by a few seconds of the Rick Astley song “Never Gonna Give You Up” at maximum volume, despite the phone being set to a low volume. This occurrence has left me perplexed about the cause—whether it’s a hack or a glitch. Additionally, it has been suggested that the Citizen app might be responsible, as other users have reported similar incidents involving the same audio clips and other songs. What are your thoughts on this matter?

Answer:

When your Galaxy S10 unexpectedly belts out the “Who’s That Pokémon?” intro followed by Rick Astley’s iconic tune at full blast, it’s understandable to feel a mix of confusion and concern. The key question is whether this is a quirky glitch or a sign of something more sinister, like a hack.

Firstly, let’s consider the nature of the sounds. The fact that they are recognizable and part of popular culture suggests that this isn’t the work of a standard virus or malware, which typically operate silently. Instead, it points towards either a prank application or an unintended feature of an installed app, such as the Citizen app mentioned.

The Citizen app theory gains traction when we note that other users have experienced similar issues. Apps sometimes have hidden Easter eggs or features that can trigger such behavior, often as a joke or a surprise for the user. However, when these features malfunction or activate at inappropriate times, they can cause alarm.

From a security standpoint, the crucial step is to determine if the app is indeed the source. You can start by checking the app’s permissions—does it have the ability to override sound settings? If so, this could explain the sudden volume increase. Additionally, reviewing recent updates or changes to the app could provide clues, as these incidents might correlate with a particular update.

If the app is the culprit, the solution could be as simple as changing its settings, updating it, or, if necessary, uninstalling it. However, if the problem persists or if you have any doubts about the security of your device, it’s wise to conduct a thorough security scan using reputable antivirus software. This will help ensure that your phone hasn’t been compromised by any malicious software.

In conclusion, while the unexpected serenade from your phone is likely more of a nuisance than a threat, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Keep your apps and phone’s operating system up to date, regularly review app permissions, and maintain good overall cybersecurity hygiene to protect your device from genuine threats.