Samsung S4 Google Play Edition

[justmegt]

I've just just bought a second hand S4 Google Play Edition. I did a hard reset but have noticed some extra apps are still on the phone, or maybe just the icons. How do I make sure there are not any viruses or hidden software on the phone, before I insert my sim card?

I am currently using an S3, which keeps coming up with errors. I didn't want to lose my texts, so I bought the S4. It's very similar and has 4G, which I get for free on GiffGaff. The S3 only gets 3G.

 

[Rukbat]

If you did a factory reset, any icons you see are for system apps. If you want to be certain, reflash the ROM (see [Samsung] How to flash Stock ROM via ODIN).

 

[B. Diddy]

What extra apps icons are you seeing?

 

[justmegt]

Flashing the ROM sounds drastic. Digging myself a deeper hole.
I'm not too worried about the apps, as I think they are only icons.
I've been reading around the internet and think the icons may be default ones. I panicked because they looked a lot different to my S3. I am retired and used to be up to date with technology but can't keep up with everything that's being introduced. That's why I bought an S4, instead of going for one of the latest models.
I just want to make sure I don't have any viruses or hidden files that may track my calls or usage.
Call me paranoid but you hear of so many scams these days.
Thanks in advance, for your help.