Google recommends that you make sure your device is running the latest version of the mobile operating system — this advice applies to both smartphones and tablets. The easiest way to do this is by going into your settings, clicking on the search field, and typing in "update.” If that isn't an option, you can scroll near the bottom, tap System, and then System Update.

Check that the Google Play app is up to date, as it comes with Google Play Protect, which can defend your phone from malware or nasty bugs. To open the Google Play Store on your phone, tap your profile icon in the upper right corner of the app, locate and tap the Manage Apps & Devices option, and see whether you have any apps installed that need to be updated.

Google also explains on its support website that, if your Android device has 10% or less storage capacity, the device may become unstable and experience various problems like crashing. To check storage on most devices, you can open Settings, then scroll down and tap Storage. On Samsung devices, the storage setting is found within the Battery and Device Care menu.

If all these methods fail, you may have to do a Factory Reset which will wipe your phone completely clean and revert it to its original state. Make sure you back up your device, so that you can restore text messages, photos, and other content after you’ve reset the phone. Then, open your Settings, click on System, select Restart & Reset, and click on Factory Data Reset.