The idea of a stranger hacking your phone is enough to make anyone panic. If threat actors can access your private information, they can cause untold damage. This includes stalking you, committing identity theft, or even blackmailing you.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to know if your phone is hacked. We’ll discuss the most common signs of phone hacking, what to do if your phone’s been hacked, and how to avoid letting it happen in the first place.
A common way hackers get access to your phone is through unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Cyber crooks use public Wi-Fi hotspots to launch man-in-the-middle attacks and create evil twin networks. CyberGhost VPN uses powerful encryption to prevent them from infiltrating your device. You can try it risk-free for 45 days with a money-back guarantee.
How to Know If Your Phone Is Hacked? 10 Signs
Phone hacking is no joke. It gives cybercriminals direct access to your personal information, online accounts, social media, and credit card information. If you notice unusual activity and suspect a phone hack, it’s time to take action.
Here are 10 signs that your phone is hacked:
1. Your Phone Is Slower Than Normal
While phones naturally get slower with time and use, extremely inexplicable slowdowns could signify a virus or other malware. When malware runs in the background, it uses lots of processing power.
This can make apps freeze or glitch. If you’re used to your phone running smoothly, this sign is hard to miss.
Your phone might also heat up for no reason. If you notice these signs, check what apps are running in the background. If you see something you don’t recognize, first check online. If it seems dodgy, disable or delete it immediately.
2. Your Battery Drains Faster
Your phone’s battery deteriorates over time, too. But sudden battery drainage could mean trouble. Hackers use background processes that drain the battery quickly.
Spyware can even use your camera, mic, or location without your knowledge.
If you’ve just fully charged your phone and an hour later you have 15% left, it could mean your phone is hacked. You can check which apps are using the most battery in your settings. If you can’t find a reason for the battery drain, it could be time to scan for malicious apps or files.
3. Strange Behavior Independent of Use
Does your phone seem to be acting on its own? If apps are opening, calls are being made, or messages are sent without you, it’s a serious red flag. Hackers may be controlling your phone remotely. You might even notice things happening while your screen lock is on.
Check for strange photos, messages, or activity in your history. Look for any texts or calls you didn’t make. If you notice anything strange, secure your accounts and create strong passwords for all online accounts. Just make sure you use a different device to do it.
4. Unexplainable Data Usage
Unexplained spikes in data usage can mean your phone is hacked. Hackers use your internet connection to transfer data to and from your phone without you knowing.
Look at your data usage stats in your settings to see if anything seems out of place. If an app you never use suddenly shows high data use, it could be infected with malware.
5. Mysterious Pop-ups and Notifications
Lots of pop-ups or strange alerts could mean your phone has adware. Adware is a type of malware that shows you unwanted ads. Avoid clicking these pop-ups as they could be malicious links to more invasive malware.
6. Unusual Activity on Your Online Accounts
Strange activity on your online accounts can mean hackers have accessed them. Look out for unexpected password resets, changes to settings, or code requests.
Hackers can use your accounts on your phone to keep digging for more of your personal info. Review activity on social media, email, or banking apps for anything unusual.
7. Your Contacts Receive Messages You Didn’t Send
Are friends or family receiving messages you never sent them? Hackers sometimes use messaging to send malicious links to your contacts. Check your messages for anything you don’t remember sending.
If people tell you they’re getting strange messages from you, act quickly. Warn your contacts publicly to not open any links and change your account passwords from another device.
8. Unfamiliar Apps on Your Phone
Apps you didn’t install shouldn’t appear on your phone. If you spot an unfamiliar app, a hacker might be involved. Most phones come with pre-installed apps that you may not recognize. So, an unknown app isn’t always a sign of hacking.
If your phone is old or has limited storage, it can sometimes show signs similar to hacking, like slower speeds or battery drain. Don’t assume right away your phone is hacked. Check online before removing an app just in case it’s important. Read online forums to see what others have to say about it.
9. Changes to Your Settings
Pay attention to your phone settings, especially camera and microphone permissions. If your settings change on their own, it may mean someone’s controlling your phone. Hackers can alter things like your camera, mic, or privacy settings to spy on you.
If you notice unusual changes, it’s a good idea to run a malware scan and if you can, do a factory reset. Adding extra security like fingerprint or face ID can also help.
10. Some Websites Look Different
Malware can change the way websites appear. If sites look strange or redirect you to other pages, malware might be involved. Hackers use this trick to take you to fake sites that steal your info. Don’t enter personal info on sites that look odd. To fix this, clear your browsing history and consider using a secure browser. Updating your security software can also prevent future issues.
How to Check if Your Phone Camera Is Hacked
Crafty cybercriminals hide their tracks. If they access your phone’s camera, you may not always notice. However, certain behaviors can give it away. One sign is when your camera app opens by itself or your flashlight lights up for no reason.
You should also keep an eye out for photos or videos taken without your permission. These may be located in your device storage (check the trash folder too!) or they could have been sent to someone in an SMS, message app, or email. If that’s the case, you’re probably seeing evidence of someone controlling your camera remotely. The same goes for the webcams on your other devices.
While you can turn on your camera unnoticed if you press buttons accidentally, it should be easy enough to rule that out. It’s also a good idea to check whether someone else, like a partner or parent, can access your phone and might be responsible for the photos or videos.
Phone Hacks: How Hackers Access Your Phone
Hackers use many tricks to get into your phone. They want to steal personal details, spy on you, or even take control of your mobile device. Here are common ways hackers can hack your phone and what you should watch out for.
1. Malicious Apps
Fake apps can get through security checks on the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store. These apps may look harmless but run malicious software in the background. They often download hidden files or other apps.
Android users, in particular, should check for suspicious new apps that ask for extra permissions. It’s a good idea to know how to spot fake apps before downloading anything unfamiliar.
2. Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are one of the most common ways hackers get access to your devices. They can come through text messages, emails, or social media. Hackers use social engineering tricks to make you click on malicious links.
These links can download malware onto your mobile device. Phishing emails often look like they’re from friends or official companies. Avoid clicking on links from unknown senders, and use multi-factor authentication for extra security.
3. Unencrypted Wi-Fi Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks are risky and often lack the security necessary to protect you against hacks. When you connect to public Wi-Fi shared by hackers, they can see what you do or even take control of your phone.
Using a VPN protects you against hackers on public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and makes it harder for hackers to watch you.
CyberGhost VPN uses strong encryption to prevent hackers from intercepting your traffic and gaining entry to your device. It’s compatible with all popular devices including Android, iOS devices, Mac, and Windows. You can connect up to 7 devices at once to protect all your main devices.
4. Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots
Hackers sometimes create fake Wi-Fi hotspots that look like real ones. This is called an “evil twin” attack. If you connect, hackers can see your activity and steal your login credentials. You may find these fake hotspots in public places like cafes or airports.
Be careful with public Wi-Fi and avoid logging into sensitive accounts on it. Your best bet is to use a VPN to protect your data.
5. SIM Swapping
SIM swapping happens when a hacker tricks your mobile carrier into moving your phone number to their device. When they control your phone number, they can access accounts with two-factor authentication.
If your phone suddenly stops working, it could be a SIM swap. Call your service provider if this happens and ask them to add extra security to your SIM card.
6. Spyware
Spyware or “stalkerware” lets cybercriminals secretly watch on your mobile device. Sometimes, people close to you install it to track you. This software can see your location, read messages, and even use your phone camera.
Hackers can also install some spyware remotely through phishing attacks. To avoid spyware infections, always be cautious about what you click on or download. And keep your phone close by you at all times.
7. Poorly Coded or Abandoned Apps
Apps that aren’t well-made or haven’t been updated in a while can be risky. Hackers can use security vulnerabilities to get into your phone. Ensure apps on your phone are updated. Keeping your apps updated improves security and lowers the risk of hacking.
8. Stingray Operations
Some law enforcement agencies use Stingray devices to track you through your phone. These tools collect data from everyone in the area, not just specific targets. While Stingray devices are mainly used to track suspects, they can gather information from anyone.
What to Do If Your Phone Has Been Hacked
- Turn off your internet connection. Cybercriminals can’t do much when your phone isn’t connected to the internet. Switching off the connection prevents them from stealing any more data or monitoring your phone. They may still be able to listen in on any phone calls you make or read SMSs you send, though, so be careful.
- Change your passwords. Replace your passwords on the most important accounts, like your email, online banking, and e-wallet platforms, first. Try to do this on a different device, if you can, to avoid anyone potentially intercepting these changes through your phone. Every new password should be strong and unique.
- Activate 2FA on important accounts. If you haven’t already, activate multi-factor authentication on important accounts. Use a trusted account like your primary email or an authentication app on a different device to avoid receiving OTPs on your infected phone.
- Warn your contacts. Let your friends and family know to ignore any messages from you containing links. Do the same on social networks if it looks like your accounts might have been compromised too.
- Contact your network provider. Warn your mobile carrier about the possibility of a SIM swap so they can monitor the situation. You can also ask whether your number has been subscribed to any premium services and ask them to unsubscribe it for you.
- Contact your bank. If you do internet banking on your phone, it’s important to contact your bank and let them know to be on the lookout for suspicious activity. They may also be able to advise you on how to protect your account.
- Turn off your internet connection. Cybercriminals can’t do much when your phone isn’t connected to the internet. Switching off the connection prevents them from stealing any more data or monitoring your phone. They may still be able to listen in on any phone calls you make or read SMSs you send, though, so be careful.
How to Remove a Hacker from Your Phone
1. Delete Suspicious Apps
It’s possible your phone wasn’t hacked via an infected or malicious app but delete anything suspicious to eliminate that possibility. Focus on free apps, ones you downloaded recently or from third-party app stores, and old apps that aren’t receiving updates anymore.
2. Delete Questionable Files
Check your downloads folder and delete any APK files you recently downloaded. If you see other files you don’t remember downloading or aren’t sure what they are, it’s better to delete them too.
3. Run a Malware Scan
Install a trusted malware and spyware remover (don’t bother with “antivirus” apps, as phones generally can’t get viruses) and run a full scan. Look for one by a well-known provider with good reviews.
4. Restore Your Phone to Factory Settings
If you’ve gone through these steps and you think your phone is still hacked, you might need to do a factory reset. This will remove everything from your phone so back up any important files, contacts, and messages first.
FAQ
Yes, you can check if your phone is hacked by looking for these common signs:
1- Unusual Battery Drain: If your phone’s battery drains quickly, it may be a sign of malicious apps running in the background.
2- Increased Data Usage: A sudden spike in data usage without any changes to your habits could indicate unauthorized activity.
3- Pop-ups and Ads: Excessive pop-ups, even when you’re not using a browser, may signal malware.
4- Slow Performance: If your phone has become sluggish or crashes frequently, it may be compromised.
5- Suspicious Apps: Check for apps you don’t recognize or didn’t install.
6- Unauthorized Calls or Texts: If you notice calls or texts that you didn’t send, your phone could be hacked.
7- Strange Activity on Linked Accounts: If accounts linked to your phone, like email or social media, show unfamiliar activity, it might be due to a breach.
If you suspect your phone is hacked, remove suspicious apps, update your device, change passwords, and consider using security software. In severe cases, perform a factory reset.
Security experts have debunked the rumors that the *#21# code will help you see if your phone has been compromised. This code checks if call forwarding is active on a phone or not but can’t tell you anything else about your iOS or Android phone. If you think your phone is hacked, you might be able to tell through the common signs we list in this guide.
Yes, you can check for hacking signs by paying attention to unusual activity on your phone. Start by reviewing your apps – delete any that are unfamiliar. Check data and battery usage in settings – sudden spikes may mean malware. Look for strange activity in messages, emails, or settings. When in doubt, run a malware scan or restore your device to factory settings.
Here are 10 signs your phone is hacked and it’s time to take action:
1. Your phone is slower than normal
2. Your battery’s draining faster
3. Strange behavior independent of use
4. Unexplainable data usage
5. Mysterious pop-ups and notifications
6. Unusual activity on your online accounts
7. Your contacts receive messages you didn’t send
8. Unfamiliar apps on your phone
9. Changes to your settings
10. Some websites look different
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