9 Ways to Know if There Is Spyware on Your Phone

Certain signs often give it away. In this article, we’ll show you what to look for and how to spot spyware on your phone. You’ll also find steps to remove it if you’ve been infected and tips to keep your device secure going forward. Let’s start with the top signs someone might be spying on your phone.

9 Signs Someone Is Spying On Your Phone

Spyware is often subtle and hard to detect, but sometimes, you’ll notice the signs. Here are 9 red flags that could reveal that you have spyware on your phone:

1. High Data Usage

Spyware uses your phone’s data to send information to the attacker. If you notice a big spike in your mobile data usage without a clear reason, it could be a sign of spyware. If you suspect you have spyware on your phone, check your data usage in settings. 

You can see how much data has been used within a given period. If the usage is much higher than normal, it could be a sign of spyware. You can also enable Data Saver on Android or Low Data Mode on iOS to restrict background data activity. 

2. Battery Drains Rapidly

Spyware apps run in the background and drain your phone’s battery faster than normal. If your phone’s battery is dying quickly, even when you’re not using it, spyware could be the cause.

​​It’s worth noting that malware isn’t the only thing that drains your battery quickly. Batteries degrade over time, so don’t panic just yet. However, if you notice this sign alongside other signs of spyware, it’s time to take action.

3. Phone Overheats

Spyware apps run in the background and use a lot of your phone’s processing power. This extra workload forces your phone’s processor to work harder, which causes it to overheat. If your phone is hot to the touch when you’re not doing intensive tasks, it’s a sign something’s wrong. 

It might be time to ask yourself, “Is my phone being spied on?” Spyware might be the culprit if overheating occurs often without you running power-hungry apps. Keep an eye out for other spyware signs to confirm.

4. Slow Performance

Most smartphones have a typical lifespan of 3 to 5 years. As they age, it’s normal for things to slow down. Apps take longer to load, taps are more sluggish, and websites take a few extra seconds to open. This is just the natural wear and tear of outdated hardware. 

However, if your phone’s still in good condition and isn’t performing well, lagging or freezing when you’re just doing simple tasks, it might be because spyware is using up your phone’s resources. 

5. Strange Noises During Calls

Hearing weird clicks, static noise, or distant voices during calls isn’t normal. It could be more than just bad reception. Unless you’re in an area with poor signal, strange sounds like clicks, static, or faint voices during calls, it could be due to spyware.

Spyware apps can record your conversations and they create unusual background noise in the process. You might even hear these odd sounds during video calls on FaceTime or Zoom. If the issue persists and isn’t linked to a connection problem, you may have a spyware infection. 

6. Unfamiliar Apps Appear

Spyware often sneaks onto your phone disguised as legitimate-looking apps. These apps might appear harmless, with names like “System Update” or “Device Manager”. This is a clever trick cybercriminals use to make these apps easy to overlook. If you spot unfamiliar apps you don’t remember downloading, it’s a major red flag. 

Spyware apps can run in the background and quietly collect and record your data. This. can include your passwords, bank details, and private conversations. 

If you come across such an app, take time to investigate. Look up the app name online to check forums for what others say about it. If it seems suspicious, delete it immediately and run a malware scan to remove any traces of the spyware. Keeping an eye on your app list is one of the simplest ways to catch spyware.

7. Weird Texts or Notifications

One obvious sign that your phone has spyware is if you get weird text messages with random numbers, symbols, or characters. Some spy apps send coded messages to control your phone remotely. Normally, these messages are hidden, but sometimes glitches cause them to show. If this happens, it’s a sure sign something’s not right.

First, block the sender and delete the message. Then, you’ll want to take steps to remove spyware. We’ll show you how to do this in a later section. 

8. Increased Activity in Standby Mode

Some types of spyware let hackers control your phone remotely. It often tries to stay hidden so you don’t notice. However, you might still notice signs that something unusual is happening. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• • Your screen lights up unexpectedly. If your phone lights up without any incoming notifications or activity, spyware could be at play.
    
  • Your camera opens on its own. Your camera turning on randomly without you using it could mean someone is remotely accessing it.
    
  • Your phone sends messages by itself. If your phone is sending texts or messages without your input, it’s a strong sign someone has remote access to your phone.
    
  • New bookmarks in your browser. Spyware may add unfamiliar bookmarks or favorites to your browser.
    
  • Unfamiliar browsing history. Check your browser history for any suspicious or unknown websites you didn’t visit.
    
  • Private info in your screenshot gallery. Spyware might take screenshots of sensitive information and store them in your gallery without your knowledge.
    

9. Suspicious Charges

Some spyware steals your financial information. This includes your credit card or bank account details. Hackers can sell this info on the dark web or use it to transfer money without you knowing. 

If you notice weird charges or payments – no matter how small – it could be because you have spyware on your phone. These charges often start small to avoid being noticed but get larger over time. Regularly check your accounts for suspicious activity.

How Does Spyware Get on Your Phone? 

Spyware can take many forms. It’s often disguised as legitimate apps but it can also hide in your device’s background. Here are the most common types of spyware to watch out for:

1. Fake Apps from the App Store or Play Store

Not all apps on the App Store and Google Play Store are safe and legitimate apps. Some spyware comes disguised as normal apps to trick you into downloading them. You might not even realize you’re downloading a fake app. They replicate well-known apps with minor, often unnoticeable differences to catch you off-guard. 

For example, instead of downloading “WhatsApp,” you might find a lookalike called “WhatApp.” The replica will often have a very similar logo, making it easy to mistake it for the real thing. Always check app reviews and permissions before installing anything. You can also check out our guide on how to spot fake apps.

Here’s a list of known spyware apps – if you see them on your phone, delete them. 

2. Adware

Adware is the kind of spyware that floods your phone with annoying ads. You might see pop-ups, banners, or even full-screen ads while browsing or using apps. These ads often seem tailored to your interests, based on what you’ve been looking at online. But clicking on them can lead you to dangerous websites or infect your phone with malware. 

3. Stalkerware

Stalkerware is one of the creepiest types of spyware. It tracks everything you do on your device, from the texts you type to the conversations you have. Some even use your camera and microphone without you knowing! Stalkerware can take screenshots, track your location, and collect tons of personal information. 

It often hides as a normal app, so it’s hard to spot. People use this type of spyware to stalk others. It can turn your phone into a surveillance tool without your permission. What’s worrying is that stalkerware is more common than you might think. 

“A recent Kaspersky report revealed that 10% of men and 8% of women install spyware on their partner’s devices.”

4. Government-Grade Spyware

Government-grade spyware, like Pegasus, is incredibly advanced and almost impossible to detect. However, it can be misused to spy on people. This spyware can access your calls, texts, and location – without leaving any obvious signs. What makes it so dangerous is that even a factory reset won’t remove it. It’s the most powerful form of spyware.

5. Keyloggers

Keyloggers record everything you type, including passwords, credit card numbers, and private messages. Once installed, they track your keystrokes and send the information to hackers, who use it to steal your identity or hack your accounts. 

Keyloggers often get onto your device through infected emails, downloads, or phishing websites. Because they run quietly in the background, you may not realize anything wrong until it’s too late. Check out our guide on how to spot keyloggers on your phone.

How to find spyware on your Android phone

Here’s how you can check if someone has installed spyware on your Android.

Check for Apps from Unknown Sources

1. Go to Settings

2. Tap on Biometrics and security

3. Tap Install unknown apps

4. Check if any toggle switch button is enabled

Check for Unknown Device Admin Apps

1. Go to Settings > Security > Device admin apps.
2. Look for any unfamiliar apps with device admin privileges. Spyware sometimes uses admin access to gain control of your device. Disable admin access for any unknown apps.

Inspect App Permissions

1. Open Settings > Apps & notifications > App permissions.
2. Review permissions granted to each app, especially for sensitive data like location, camera, and microphone. Spyware often requests these permissions to monitor your activity.

Review Data Usage by App

1. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Data usage > App data usage.
2. Look for unusual data consumption, especially from apps you don’t recognize. 

Look for Unusual or Duplicate Apps

1. Go to Settings > Apps and check your list of installed apps.
2. Spyware apps can appear as legitimate tools or system updates. If you see any unfamiliar or duplicate apps, look them up online to verify their legitimacy.

Scan Accessibility Settings for Unknown Apps

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility and look for any unknown apps with accessibility permissions.
2. Spyware sometimes uses these settings to monitor your actions. Disable accessibility permissions for any unfamiliar apps.

How to find spyware on your iPhone 

Apple’s security is pretty tight, so you’re far less likely to get a spyware infection if you use an iPhone. That said, it’s not impossible for it to happen either.

Open Settings and Check for Unknown Profiles

• • Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management (or Profiles & Device Management, depending on your iOS version).
  • Look for any profiles you didn’t install yourself. Spyware sometimes hides here to gain permissions. Delete any suspicious or unknown profiles.

Check Data Usage in Cellular Settings

• • Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) and scroll through the list of apps.
  • Look for apps you don’t recognize that are consuming high amounts of data. Spyware uses data to send information back to the attacker.

Review Screen Time for Unusual Activity

• • Open Settings > Screen Time and tap See All Activity to view app usage details.
  • Look for any unknown apps or unexpected activity under “Most Used.” Spyware may run in the background, so if you see activity from apps you don’t recognize, investigate further.

Check Safari for Unknown Bookmarks or History

• • Open Safari and check Bookmarks and History for unfamiliar links.
  • Some spyware will create bookmarks or visit sites without your knowledge.

How to Remove Spyware from Your Phone

Removing spyware from your phone isn’t always going to be straightforward. This is especially true if you’re dealing with highly sophisticated spyware*. Having said that, taking these basic steps will help you in cases where the spyware infection isn’t too severe. 

1. Run a Malware Scan

The first step to remove spyware from your phone is to run a malware scan. Spyware is a form of malware, so using a reliable anti-malware app can help detect and remove it. Advanced spyware can be hard to detect, so you’ll want to perform a few scans with different tools. Just make sure if you use multiple anti-malware programs they don’t clash with each other. 

When it comes to something as serious as spyware, it’s always better to use paid tools. You can find free tools that work reasonably well, but the scans won’t be as thorough. 

2. Change Your Passwords

If you think you have spyware on your phone, change your passwords as soon as possible. To be safe, do this from another device you know isn’t infected. Changing your passwords prevents cybercriminals from using data they may have already accessed. Make sure your new passwords are strong and unique for each account. Check our guide on how to create strong passwords.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is essential for safeguarding your accounts. When you use 2FA, you have to confirm your identity using a second method (in addition to your password). This might be a code sent to your phone or email address. It adds extra protection and makes it harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they’ve stolen your password.

4. Reboot Your Phone in Safe Mode

Safe mode disables third-party apps and only uses essential apps. This makes it easier to identify and remove spyware without interference. It also keeps your phone safe until you discover where the problem is coming from.

Here’s how to use safe mode on your Android device. 

1. Press and hold the Power button until the Power Off option appears.

2. Then press and hold Power Off until the Reboot to Safe Mode option appears. 

3. Tap the Safe mode icon. When your phone starts, you should see a notification saying “Safe mode is on.”

Extra tip: To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your phone. 

Although iPhones don’t have a traditional safe mode, you can temporarily disable Wi-Fi and cellular data by turning on Airplane Mode. This prevents spyware from communicating with external servers and gives you a chance to audit your apps and files.

5. Delete Unfamiliar Apps and Files

Once your phone is in safe mode, go through your apps and files to spot anything unfamiliar or suspicious. Spyware disguises itself as a legitimate app, so be cautious about anything that looks odd or unfamiliar. Delete any suspicious apps or files immediately. Clearing your browser cache and history can also help remove remnants of spyware lurking there.

6. Scan Again and Update Everything

Once you remove suspicious apps, run another antivirus scan to remove hidden traces of spyware. You should also update your operating system and all apps on your phone. Spyware often sneaks in through outdated software. This means keeping your phone and apps up to date is crucial. Regular updates provide important security patches that close off vulnerabilities hackers can exploit.  

7. Reset Your Phone to Factory Settings (If Necessary)

In some cases, spyware can be stubborn and difficult to remove. If you’ve tried everything and still think you have spyware on your phone, perform a factory reset. This will wipe all data from your device, including any spyware. However, always back up your files beforehand – factory resets erase everything on your phone.

*For cases involving advanced spyware, such as government-grade or persistent spyware, consult a professional cybersecurity service. Experts can conduct a thorough analysis of your device and may use specialized tools to detect and remove deeply embedded spyware.

11 Ways to Protect Your Phone Against Spying

The best way to keep spyware off your device is to be proactive and stay vigilant. Here are some simple steps to protect yourself against spyware:

1. Keep everything up to date. Make sure your phone’s operating system and apps are always updated. New updates come with security fixes that help block spyware from getting in.

2. Use anti-spyware software. Installing trusted anti-spyware software is your first line of defense. It can detect and stop spyware before it causes harm.

3. Don’t click on suspicious links. Phishing emails often contain links that can lead to spyware infections. If something looks off, or you don’t recognize the sender, avoid clicking any links.

4. Install antivirus software. A reliable antimalware app can help find and remove spyware. Regular scans keep your device clean and secure.

5. Secure your email. Phishing emails are a common way to get spyware. For this reason, make sure your email has spam filters and MFA to block unwanted threats.
   
6. Run regular security checks. Occasional security audits on your device help you catch potential risks before they become big problems.

7. Block pop-ups. Pop-up ads can carry spyware. Using a pop-up blocker helps keep these sneaky windows from infecting your device.
   
8. Stick to trustworthy websites. Be careful when browsing the web. Avoid unfamiliar or sketchy sites. They can hide spyware and other harmful malware – especially if you download from them.
   
9. Watch out for free software. Free apps or software can sometimes be loaded with spyware. Always check reviews for unfamiliar apps before installing them.
   
10. Restrict physical access to your phone. Never leave your phone unattended. If you do, it’s easy for someone to manually install a spyware app on it.
    
11. Adjust browser privacy settings. Tweak your browser’s privacy settings to limit tracking and make it harder for spyware to grab your information. You might also want to consider using private browsers like Brave or DuckDuckGo which, unlike Google Chrome, actively blocks trackers.  

FAQ