Your phone is a gateway to your most private information, from personal messages to banking details. But what if someone could access all that without you even knowing? Spyware on your phone makes this possible, allowing attackers to monitor your activity and steal your data. And as spyware gets more advanced, it’s harder to detect. So how do you know if there’s 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.
Cybercriminals often use public Wi-Fi to install spyware on devices, taking advantage of unsecured networks to gain access to your data. Using a VPN protects you from these threats by encrypting your internet traffic, even on public Wi-Fi. CyberGhost VPN secures your data with powerful encryption, giving you peace of mind when connecting on the go.
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.
- Your screen lights up unexpectedly. If your phone lights up without any incoming notifications or activity, spyware could be at play.
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.
Protect your online transactions by encrypting them with CyberGhost VPN. Our powerful encryption safeguards your details when you shop online or use online banking.
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
- Go to Settings
- Tap on Biometrics and security
- Tap Install unknown apps
4. Check if any toggle switch button is enabled
Check for Unknown Device Admin Apps
- Go to Settings > Security > Device admin apps.
- 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
- Open Settings > Apps & notifications > App permissions.
- 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
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > Data usage > App data usage.
- Look for unusual data consumption, especially from apps you don’t recognize.
Look for Unusual or Duplicate Apps
- Go to Settings > Apps and check your list of installed apps.
- 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
- Go to Settings > Accessibility and look for any unknown apps with accessibility permissions.
- 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.
- Press and hold the Power button until the Power Off option appears.
- Then press and hold Power Off until the Reboot to Safe Mode option appears.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Install antivirus software. A reliable antimalware app can help find and remove spyware. Regular scans keep your device clean and secure.
- 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.
- Run regular security checks. Occasional security audits on your device help you catch potential risks before they become big problems.
- Block pop-ups. Pop-up ads can carry spyware. Using a pop-up blocker helps keep these sneaky windows from infecting your device.
- 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.
- Watch out for free software. Free apps or software can sometimes be loaded with spyware. Always check reviews for unfamiliar apps before installing them.
- 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.
- 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.
You can also protect yourself from potential spyware attacks when using public Wi-Fi by securing your connection. CyberGhost VPN offers military-grade encryption to keep your data safe, ensuring your privacy is protected from prying eyes.
FAQ
Spyware is a type of malicious software that sneaks onto your device to track everything you do. Once it’s installed, spyware can access your messages, browsing history, location, and even sensitive info like passwords and financial details—all without you knowing. Some spyware can even control your microphone or camera remotely.
Cybercriminals often use spyware to steal personal data for financial gain, but it can also be used for surveillance and tracking. Spyware usually hides in seemingly harmless apps or attachments, making it tough to spot. That’s why knowing the signs and how to remove it is key to keeping your information safe.
MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) isn’t spyware. It’s a standard protocol to transfer media files between your phone and computer. However, spyware can disguise itself as legitimate processes, so it’s important to ensure the MTP host process running on your device is genuine.
Spyware can cause your phone to behave in strange ways, including:
– Rapid battery drain
– Increased data usage
– Overheating
– Strange texts or pop-ups
– Unfamiliar apps appearing
– Sluggish performance
– Strange noises during calls
If your phone is acting strangely without explanation, it could be a sign of spyware. Regularly run anti-malware scans to help detect and remove hidden spyware from your phone.
To check your phone for spyware, download a trusted antivirus or anti-malware app. On Android, apps like Malwarebytes or Avast from the Google Play Store work well. For iPhones, you can use Avira or Malwarebytes. Run a full system scan to find and remove any spyware. It’s also important to keep your phone updated and do regular scans to help prevent future infections.
Yes, you can check for spyware by looking for signs like unusual battery drain, high data usage, unfamiliar apps, and performance issues. You can also run a scan using reliable antivirus software to check for hidden spyware. On Android, apps like Malwarebytes can help detect spyware. For iPhones, using trusted security apps can offer protection and detect any potential spyware.
Leave a comment
Angel Boehm
Posted on 11/03/2023 at 11:11
Hi there. I found this info very helpful. I am currently dealing with cybersecurity attacks. I believe it is my ex and his girlfriend. The both work for Microsoft. He is an Engineer and UI Designer. He also works on a team that handles site securities for the government , which makes him highly technicaly capable. He has access to my computer through a thunderbolt connection we had when we lived together. I have taken ALL the suggestions and steps from your site and been working with Apple. At this point they have told me to get a Forensic Computer tech. I have already contacted law enforcement, but the type of evidence they need is hard to grab when you are dealing with someone who is covert. It’s super scary. Until I can turn my devices over to a Forensics specialis, I just have to live with these two all up in my devices, my life etc. it’s so lame
Ghostie
Posted on 14/03/2023 at 11:10
We’re so sorry to hear you’re going through this, Angel. Hopefully you get the evidence you need soon. Stay strong!
Ariana Awer
Posted on 16/02/2023 at 19:38
Hi recently I believe someone has infected all my kids phones and my phones with malware as well as my smart tvs! I know it’s my boyfriends sister this girl has a really sad obsession with me and has finally found a new friend just like her so they have been teaming up! Saddest part is she doesn’t really show that she cares about my boyfriend they just like to control him… she’s older than me but behaves like a 12yo.. all of this for nothing… all I ever did was stick up for her and tell him to help her.. but honestly she’s trashy.. way too old to be playing these childish games… now my man actually has a family that cares about him and helps him… how do I remove all this malware… I noticed a while ago I was getting all these text messages with links abcs now they are talking through the mics on my phones and TVs I’m not going anywhere! If she want so childish I would’ve gladly left.. the condition of this building is nothing to fight for SMH! I’m always dumping my money into something (pest control) we had drain flies pantry moths mice galore spiders galore… red and black ant problems… roach problems centipede problems mold problems.. cracks in the walls… as well as so many other issues and bugs I’ve never seen.. I could easily call the board of health.. they condemn this place… No way they have the money to put into this dump.. even had my own place furnished and paid for an entire year but I have a soft spot for my bf so we stick together through all the traps this woman has laid but lately it’s getting too childish… haven’t played these games since middle/high school
Ghostie
Posted on 20/02/2023 at 11:27
We’re sorry to hear you’re going through this, Ariana. Have you tried following the steps we provided under How to Remove Spyware from Your Phone? You might also want to check out our steps for removing router malware and fileless malware. If you’re still unsure what to do, we’d recommend checking out a local shop for hardware repair or technical support like iCare for Apple products.
Winn
Posted on 08/02/2023 at 13:56
Very useful information that you have given on spyware, thank you very much. God bless you. But how can I know that Ghost VPN itself is not a hidden spyware?
Ghostie
Posted on 09/02/2023 at 10:29
Hi Winn. Glad to hear you found the article useful.
CyberGhost VPN operates under a strict No Logs policy and our apps were developed under the Privacy-by-Design principles. This means our service was designed to prevent any data storage. We don’t track or store what you do online while you are connected to our servers.
Our systems have also been independently audited. Professionals from Deloitte inspected our servers and systems, and concluded they are in line with our policies. You can read more about it here.
Nathaniel Ejeta
Posted on 26/12/2022 at 14:12
have learnt a lot and I have also gained enough knowledge from this content.
Ghostie
Posted on 27/12/2022 at 17:55
Good to hear Nathaniel. Thanks for reading our blog.
Pam Wallis
Posted on 01/02/2023 at 19:35
I had to get rid of my apple phone. I am a 64 year old Wan and stone has taken over my life with suff they put on the social media sites pretenti g to be me, and this is my Hisbands phone John and I believe it is on this phone as well. My life has been ruined,I don’t do social media,and don’t have wifi either, my family have a banded me, and I have no friends anymore as well. Please help
Ghostie
Posted on 02/02/2023 at 10:37
Hi Pam. Unfortunately, your message doesn’t contain that many details for us to offer any additional advice. Have you considered checking your husband’s phone at an iCare center for malware or viruses?
David
Posted on 03/12/2022 at 14:34
I’m a technological dinosaur.
Thanks for interesting reading.
All my keys on phone moved on Thier own for a while like someone was controlling my phone. Unless it was water in it ?
When I call my Dad
It says call waiting until it’answers band it says call forwarding. My.mate says my calls to him are traced and more nitored.
If I’ve alr at got some spyware on my phone and am being traced tracked and monitored.
Do I have to buy a new phone, get a new SIM card. Or both.
And if I put Ghost vpn or protectstar.on phone. Does this kick out any spyware on phone that is there. Or just.protect for future attack.
Sorry for all questions , but this is new to me and scary.
If someone has my number and I get a new number from my.provider. can someone find out my new number on a computer from having my old number. ?
One last question. A page came up on my phone that I’ve never seen before.
Saying that UI was installed. Is this a problem. Actually. This is my last Q . Promise. Can a download be sent to phone that can harm someone physically ? Can the phone be used as a weapon to harm the person or cook them from the inside out. ?
It’s a serious question.
Thankyou
Ghostie
Posted on 05/12/2022 at 14:40
Hi David.
It doesn’t really sound like a spyware problem but it could be another strain of malware. Have you checked the weird noises and call forwarding with your phone carrier? It might be something on their side.
CyberGhost VPN boosts your online security and encrypts your internet traffic. This helps keep snoopers at bay but it can’t delete spyware on your phone. Before switching your phone number, you could try installing an antimalware app or resetting your phone to its factory settings.
It’s perhaps best to contact a local phone repair shop, and have them take a look.
Stay safe!
Daniel
Posted on 23/08/2022 at 01:22
Your the best of the best! THANK YOU!!!
Ghostie
Posted on 24/08/2022 at 10:51
Thank you for your kind words, Daniel. Glad to hear you enjoyed reading.
spy
Posted on 29/01/2022 at 13:31
Very useful content, thank you for sharing this.
Adina Ailoaiei
Posted on 31/01/2022 at 09:17
Glad to hear you enjoyed reading, Ghostie. 🙂
William Perkins
Posted on 28/01/2022 at 08:24
So I know there is spyware on my phone from my soon to be ex wife. She knows when I change my passwords, she logs into my Google accounts I have all the stomach. And she told me she is watching me. But I can’t find the app to get it off. I’ve done a factory reset 9 times on both phones and I have enable 2 authentication, I’ve checked apps and the one that is on the most is Google there is a small foot print in my activity “Google” what do I do now. I’ve down loaded malware and spyware apps. But she is still on there. Can you help?
Adina Ailoaiei
Posted on 28/01/2022 at 11:18
Hi William. Sorry to hear you’re going through this. It’s hard to say based on the information you provided. In this case, it’s better to contact a professional service or get in touch with local authorities. They can further advise on the matter.
Kathleen ricks
Posted on 09/07/2020 at 18:54
I think all phones should come with a VPN spy app malware removal tool app instead of those stupid games and APS we don’t even want
Adina Ailoaiei
Posted on 14/07/2020 at 12:30
That would indeed be absolutely great, Kathleen. We can only dream.
Amber
Posted on 09/05/2023 at 18:39
Absolutely!! Agree with you 💯% 👍🏻
David
Posted on 02/07/2020 at 00:36
Can you shed some light on some that’s happening on my new kindle hd .When on outlook and some Google apps when I open outlook and open in box message and I click on a link on the email of some sites it opens and then shuts imedently and I end up back at the email I open so I can’t see the like as it will not open .
Thanks
Adina Ailoaiei
Posted on 14/07/2020 at 16:18
Hi, David! Don’t worry, that doesn’t really sound like a spyware problem. Some Kindle users have reported issues opening Outlook in landscape mode since the latest update. As far as I’m aware there’s no patch planned on Microsoft’s side as of yet. If you still have concerns, you can check out more info on Microsoft’s Help pages.