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How do you know if your mobile phone is being monitored?

How do you know if your mobile phone is being monitored?

Smartphones (cellphones) are powerful mobile devices that hold our emails, photos, messages, and even location. But unfortunately, they can also be used against us. Whether it’s an abusive partner, a hacker, or a government agency, someone may try to monitor your phone and invade your privacy. Knowing how to know if your phone is being monitored is therefore crucial for your security. In recent years, cybersecurity firms and news reports have exposed advanced spyware and “stalkerware” that can silently track calls, texts, and even activate your camera or microphone. For example, Meta’s WhatsApp team won a 2025 court case showing NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware can “hoover up information from any app” on your phone and even remotely switch on the mic/camera. Likewise, Lookout researchers have found new Android surveillance tools (like KoSpy) disguised as legitimate apps that steal SMS, call logs, GPS location, audio, and screenshots. These threats are real, so staying aware of the signs – from unexpected data use to unfamiliar apps – is your first line of defense. This guide covers practical tips on recognizing and removing spyware, protecting both Android and iPhone devices, and maintaining your mobile privacy.

Why Phone Monitoring Is a Concern

Your phone is a window into your life. It can reveal where you live, who you text, and even what you think. For that reason, bad actors have many motives to monitor it. Domestic abusers can use shared accounts or family phone plans to “keep tabs” on survivors’ locations, calls, and texts. Some workplaces track employee phones for security or productivity. Governments and spy companies use high-end software to track journalists, activists, or even ordinary citizens. Recent news underlines this threat: the FCC even passed a rule in 2024 protecting abuse survivors by hiding hotline calls and splitting off shared billing plans, acknowledging that “cell phones can be tools of control”. This was after reports that abusers commonly exploit location-sharing and call-logging features of phones. Meanwhile, headline-making spyware (like Pegasus) shows mobile monitoring is an industry worth billions, as private firms sell powerful surveillance software to the highest bidder. Even the U.S. government warns of a “growing market for sophisticated and invasive cyber-surveillance tools” used to compromise devices remotely.

However, most phone spying in everyday life isn’t by super-computers but by exploiting normal settings and apps. A Guardian report notes that experts helping abuse victims “more often find misconfiguration of normal settings … shared accounts or location sharing tools” rather than exotic software. In other words, your spouse might check your location through a shared app, or a partner might see your iCloud photos if logged in on another device. Still, advanced spyware does exist, so it’s important to watch for both cases. Below, we’ll explain clear warning signs and security habits so you can protect your privacy and stay in control of your mobile security.

How to Know If Your Phone Is Being Monitored: Key Signs

To know if someone is watching your phone, look for unusual behavior or alerts. No single symptom proves monitoring, but several together are red flags. Here are the most common warning signs:

  1. Rapid Battery Drain

    Does your phone’s battery run out much faster than usual? Spyware apps run constantly in the background to record data, which uses extra power. If you haven’t changed your usage habits and the battery is suddenly dying by midday, that’s suspicious. (For example, Norton warns that if a phone is tapped, “spyware records your conversations… constantly in the background,” leaving a “footprint” of increased battery usage. Check your battery usage stats (Settings → Battery) to see which apps are draining power. Unfamiliar apps using a lot of power may be culprits.

  2. Unexplained Data Usage or Charges

    Monitoring software often sends stolen data (messages, photos, location) out over the internet, so watch for big spikes in cellular or Wi-Fi data usage. Likewise, some Android spyware even texts “premium-rate” numbers or causes hidden data charges. If you get unusually high phone bills or alerts about data overages when you haven’t been streaming video, check which apps use data. On Android, look in Settings → Network & Internet → Data Usage to spot any app using large background data. On iOS, go to Settings → Cellular to review data usage. An unexplained bump could mean a spy app is quietly uploading your info.

  3. Slow Performance or Overheating

    Monitoring apps consume CPU and memory. If your phone has become sluggish, freezes up often, or restarts randomly, malware might be fighting for resources. A well-maintained phone should run smoothly, so a sudden slowdown is cause for concern. Similarly, if the device gets unusually hot even when idle, that extra heat may come from covert software working hard behind the scenes. Norton notes that if your phone feels warm when you haven’t been using it, it “could be because it’s secretly transmitting data”. Always try rebooting in safe mode (which disables third-party apps) to see if performance improves; if it does, a hidden app may be the source.

  4. New or Hidden Apps

    Spyware often disguises itself. You might see an app you don’t recall installing, perhaps with a generic name like “System Update” or “Phone Manager.” According to AVG, if you notice an unfamiliar app (or if your home screen gains a new icon without your permission), it could be malware. Some stalker apps also hide completely from the app list. To find them, go through your installed apps one by one in Settings and look for anything odd. Norton warns that “spyware often disguises itself with generic, common names and hides from your standard app list”. If such an app requests weird permissions (e.g., a calculator app asking for microphone access), delete it immediately.

  5. Strange Pop-ups or Notifications

    If ads or alerts appear for apps you didn’t install, or you get sudden security warnings, be cautious. Spy or adware can cause intrusive pop-ups. AVG notes that apps like adware might “spam you with ads”, and constant pop-ups may signal malware. Also, keep an eye on system icons: if your location, camera, or microphone icons light up when you aren’t using an app that needs them, that’s a clue someone might be spying. For instance, on iOS, an orange dot means the mic is in use; on Android, you may see similar status bar alerts. Unexpected activity of this kind should be investigated.

  6. Unusual Behavior During Calls

    Sometimes, phone tapping causes odd audio artifacts. Norton mentions that hearing clicking, static, or faint voices can indicate eavesdropping, though this is rare with modern networks. More reliably, look for weird background activity: if your phone suddenly reboots after or during calls, or if you see logins or apps launching themselves, it might mean spyware is working. Also, check your call forwarding settings (Settings → Phone on iOS or call settings on Android); if forwarding is mysteriously enabled, turn it off. Hackers can misuse call-forwarding to listen in, so it’s wise to disable any active call forwarding rules.

  7. Suspicious Texts or Codes: Some sophisticated spy apps use coded SMS commands to control the software. Norton advises that receiving strange texts filled with random numbers or symbols could be a sign: “A clear way to tell if someone tapped your phone is if you receive strange text messages containing random numbers, symbols, or characters”. These look like gibberish, and you should not click any links in them. A similar red flag is getting SMS verification codes or alerts (for apps you didn’t initiate), which could mean someone is trying to hijack your accounts.

    Observing multiple signs together greatly increases the likelihood of being monitored. If you tick several boxes above, take action. Below, we discuss how to inspect your Android or iPhone and remove unwanted software. (Internal link suggestion: see our [guide on securing Android devices] for step-by-step instructions.)

    Monitoring Apps and Tools: Legitimate vs Malicious

    Not all monitoring is inherently malicious. Many legitimate apps exist for parents to keep an eye on their kids’ phone usage or for companies to manage employee devices. For instance, parental-control tools like Google Family Link or Apple’s Screen Time let parents view location or app activity with consent. However, those same capabilities can be abused. Stalkerware — apps marketed as “family trackers” — are often used by abusers to track partners secretly. As SecureMac explains, stalkerware is a subset of spyware used in intimate relationships, usually disguised as normal apps. Likewise, Tenorshare notes that people often install monitoring software “to keep tabs on their children’s phone usage” or by employers, but the line blurs when such software runs stealthily.

    In practice, malicious monitoring tools try to blend in. They may have innocent icons or names, as Tenorshare’s analysis points out: “monitoring apps often disguise themselves as legitimate applications”. Some Android spyware even use benign-sounding names like “File Manager” or “Software Update”. This is why it’s crucial to review app permissions regularly. Both Android and iOS let you see which apps have access to your camera, mic, location, and so on. Audit these permissions: if a game or calculator app asks for microphone access, remove that permission or uninstall it. Also, check for unknown profiles on iPhone: go to Settings → General → Profiles (or Device Management) to see if a Mobile Device Management (MDM) profile is installed without your knowledge. Spyware can use MDM profiles to maintain control; any unfamiliar profile should be deleted.

    Always download apps from official stores (Google Play or Apple App Store) and avoid “sideloading” or installing APKs from the internet. Even the official stores can host spyware masquerading as “safe” apps, so read reviews and check the publisher’s legitimacy. Finally, consider using reputable mobile security apps (e.g., Norton Mobile Security, Avast, Lookout) to scan for known stalkerware or flag risky behavior. These tools run in the background and alert you to malicious apps. (Internal link suggestion: our [antivirus comparison page] reviews top mobile security apps.)

    Notable Spyware Threats and News

    While everyday monitoring often exploits settings, modern threats can also include sophisticated malware. News in 2024–25 highlights how widespread these tools have become:

    • Government-linked spyware: Lookout’s researchers identified new Android surveillanceware families created by nation-state APTs. For example, they found PlainGnome, BoneSpy, and EagleMsgSpy targeting former Soviet countries. In early 2025, Lookout disclosed KoSpy, an Android spyware attributed to North Korean APT37. KoSpy posed as mundane utility apps on Google Play and third-party stores but secretly collected texts, calls, location, audio recordings, and screenshots. (Google has since removed those apps.) Similarly, Citizen Lab reported that Russia’s FSB implanted a “Monokle”-type spyware on a phone returned to a detainee; this malware could log keystrokes, calls, and even intercept encrypted messages. These examples show that both Android and (rarely) iOS devices can be breached by nation-state tools.
    • Commercial spyware: Pegasus is the poster child. Meta’s 2025 court victory proved NSO Group’s Pegasus could infect smartphones and capture “every kind of user data on the phone”, including by exploiting WhatsApp calls. During the trial, NSO’s executives admitted Pegasus is still “capable of compromising iOS or Android devices to this day,”about.fb.com. Pegasus and similar mercenary spyware are not normally available to consumers; they’re sold to governments. But lower-tier “stalkerware” apps can be bought by private individuals, often under the guise of parental-control tools. The FTC has started banning such apps, and Google has removed dozens of them from the Play Store. It’s a cat-and-mouse game: vendors advertise on Google or Facebook for “employee monitoring” or “family safety” while the software secretly tracks users.
    • Phishing and malicious apps: Attackers often use phishing to install spyware. For example, SMS-based campaigns like the FluBot trojan have spread in recent years, tricking Android users into installing malware via fake voicemail or delivery text messages. Once on the phone, FluBot steals banking credentials. Other threats come from malicious apps impersonating legitimate ones (lookalike games, flashlight apps) that sneak in spyware. Security reports show mobile phishing has exploded recently, with attackers even impersonating executives to trick employees into installing rogue apps.

    Because threats evolve, staying updated is key. Always install the latest iOS or Android updates – they often patch vulnerabilities used by spyware. For example, many iPhone hacks require iOS bugs; running the newest iOS version closes known holes. Google also patches Android exploits regularly, so set updates to download automatically. (Internal link suggestion: link to [official iOS update guide] and [Android update tips] if available.)

    How to Check Your Android Phone

    Android devices allow more flexibility – and more risk – than iPhones. Here’s how to inspect an Android phone for spying:

    • Review Installed Apps: Go to Settings > Apps (or Applications) and look through the list. Uninstall any app you don’t recognize or remember installing. Also, check Permissions: in Settings > Permissions Manager, see which apps have access to your camera, microphone, location, SMS, etc. If a simple app (like a game) has permission to access your microphone or read your messages, revoke that permission. Norton’s guide suggests toggling off Device Administrator permissions on suspicious apps so you can uninstall them. Then uninstall: tap the app and choose Uninstall.
    • Safe Mode: Restart your phone in safe mode (this disables third-party apps). If performance improves dramatically in safe mode, a non-system app was likely causing the problem. You can then reboot normally and remove apps one by one to identify the culprit.
    • Anti-Spyware Scan: Install a trusted mobile security app (like Norton, Kaspersky, Avast, or Lookout) from Google Play and run a full scan. These scanners look for known spyware signatures or unusual behaviors. Keep the app updated. (For an enterprise or tech-savvy user, Lookout’s reports show you can even check for Indicators of Compromise from known surveillance tools, but for general use, a simple antivirus is enough.)
    • Check Data Usage: As noted, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage to see which apps use data in the background. On Android 11+, there’s a “Data Saver,” and you can restrict background data for apps you don’t fully trust.
    • Disable Call Forwarding: In the Phone app, open Settings → Supplementary services → Call forwarding, and turn off all forwarding options (Always forward, When busy, etc.). This prevents a hacker from secretly forwarding your calls to another number.
    • Factory Reset: If you strongly suspect infection or if problems persist, back up your data (photos, contacts), then perform a factory reset (Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data on Android). This wipes everything, including spyware. It’s a last resort since you’ll have to reinstall apps and lose any unbacked data.

    Always use lock-screen security (PIN, password, or biometric) to prevent unauthorized access to your device. And enable Google’s Find My Device feature (in Settings) so you can remotely locate or wipe your phone if it’s lost or stolen.

    How to Check Your iPhone

    iPhones are generally harder to hack, but spyware can still reach them (especially if jailbroken). Here are iOS-specific tips:

    • Check for Unknown Profiles: Go to Settings > General > Profiles (or Device Management). If you see a profile you didn’t install or don’t recognize, tap it and choose Remove Profile. Some spyware or MDM (Mobile Device Management) configurations sneak in as profiles. Removing an unknown profile can disrupt spyware’s control.
    • Review App List: While iOS doesn’t show hidden apps easily, go to Settings → Privacy. There you can review permissions (Camera, Microphone, Location, etc.) for all apps. If an app you don’t know has permission to access these, remove it. Also, swipe all the way right on your home screen to see the App Library: scan through alphabetically for anything unfamiliar.
    • Battery and Data Checks: Similar to Android, look at Settings > Battery to see if any app is draining a lot. Also, check Settings > Cellular for data usage. iOS doesn’t report all background data by app as clearly as Android, but if your cellular/wifi usage spikes unexpectedly, that’s a sign.
    • Security Updates: Always update to the latest iOS version. Apple’s updates often fix exploits that spyware could use. Apple’s walled garden makes random spyware rare; as Norton notes, “unless you’re the target of an incredibly sophisticated attack, spyware can’t install on an iPhone unless it’s jailbroken”. But zero-day exploits (like those Pegasus used) do occur, so updates are vital.
    • Jailbreaking: If you have never jailbroken your iPhone, most spyware can’t hide system-wide. If you did jailbreak, it’s best to reverse it and reset. Norton advises updating iOS, reversing any jailbreak, and deleting any Cydia or unknown store apps.
    • Logout and 2FA: Ensure you have strong passcodes and two-factor authentication on your Apple ID and other accounts. Also, check Settings > [Your Name] (at top) → Password & Security: turn on two-step verification and see which devices are signed in. For iMessage and FaceTime, go to Settings > Messages/FaceTime > Send & Receive and confirm only your numbers/emails are there.
    • Use Apple’s Security Features: Enable Find My iPhone (for remote wipe) and Find My Network. Turn on USB Restricted Mode (under Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode) to block USB hacks. Use built-in VPN features if desired (iOS has IKEv2 VPN settings) when on public Wi-Fi.

    In general, iOS notifications like the green/orange recording dot are helpful cues. If you ever see that dot without starting an app that uses mic/cam, double-check permissions. And if you suspect monitoring, you can enable Airplane Mode or power off in an emergency to halt transmission, giving you time to investigate.

    How to Remove Spyware and Protect Your Phone

    If you believe your phone is being monitored, take action immediately:

    1. Change Passwords and Log Out: For your critical accounts (email, social media, banking), change passwords on a separate secure device. Enable two-factor authentication on everything. If possible, log out of email and messaging services on your phone and log back in. This cuts off any remote access sessions.
    2. Remove Suspicious Apps: As above, uninstall any apps you found suspicious. Even if you’re not sure, it’s better to remove an app than risk continued spying.
    3. Run a Security Scan: Use a trusted mobile antivirus (Norton, Avast, McAfee, etc.) to scan your device. While they may miss a well-hidden stalkerware, they often clear common malware.
    4. Factory Reset: If problems persist, back up your data (photos, contacts) and do a full reset (Factory Reset on Android; Erase All Content & Settings on iPhone). This wipes all spyware but also deletes everything else. Only do this after trying other steps and making sure you have recent backups.
    5. Secure Settings: After cleaning or resetting, tighten security: enable PIN/fingerprint lock, use a strong password (not 1234 or “password”). Disable Bluetooth/Wi-Fi when not in use. Only install apps from official stores and avoid jailbreaking or rooting your device, which bypasses built-in protections.
    6. Stay Vigilant: Keep software updated, review permissions regularly, and watch news for new threats. Consider installing privacy apps that alert you if an unrecognized device logs into your account.
    7. Legal/Professional Help: If you are in a situation of abuse or criminal hacking, consider reaching out to law enforcement or digital forensics experts. In domestic abuse cases, organizations like The National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA) can advise on phone safety. For the general public, the FBI and FTC have online resources about smartphones and data privacy. (External link suggestion: see the FTC’s guide on protecting personal information for more tips.)

    Conclusion

    In today’s hyperconnected world, our mobile phones are gateways to our private lives — and unfortunately, they can also become tools for surveillance. Understanding how to know if your phone is being monitored empowers you to detect unusual activity early, secure your device, and protect your digital identity.

    Throughout this guide, we’ve covered the key signs to watch for — from rapid battery drain and strange app behavior to unexpected data usage and suspicious notifications. We explored real-world spyware threats, outlined how to check both Android and iPhone devices, and detailed practical steps to remove malicious apps and harden your phone’s security.

    Proactivity is key. By staying vigilant, using trusted security tools, regularly auditing your settings, and keeping your software updated, you can dramatically reduce your risk of being monitored. Most mobile threats rely on gaining your permission, whether through malicious apps or clever phishing, so a cautious mindset is your first defense.

    Protecting your mobile phone privacy isn’t just about preventing hacking — it’s about safeguarding your freedom, conversations, and peace of mind. Take control today, stay informed, and trust that simple, consistent actions can keep your device and your life secure.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    • How can I check if my Android phone is being monitored?

      Check for the warning signs above: unusually fast battery drain, overheated device, or apps you didn’t install. Go to Settings → Apps to review installed apps and permissions. Use a mobile antivirus app to scan for spyware. If problems persist, consider a factory reset.

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