Is Someone Spying on Your Phone? Watch Out for These Warning Signs

We’ve all heard about phone tapping and spying, but it’s not just governments we have to worry about. Malicious actors like hackers and intruders can also gain access to our phones, monitoring everything from our conversations and calls to web browsing and transactions.

So, how can you tell if your phone is compromised? While there’s no single red flag, here are several signs that warrant attention:

Phone Running Hot and Dying Fast? It Might Not Be the Battery.

Many things can drain your phone’s battery quickly, like watching videos or playing games. But pay attention if your phone’s battery drains faster than normal or gets unusually hot, even without resource-intensive apps running. While this could indicate a battery issue, it could also be a sign of hidden monitoring software running in the background.

Data Drain:

Monitor your data usage closely, especially while relying on cellular networks. A sudden spike in consumption could be malware trying to siphon your information to remote servers. Check data usage details for all installed apps and processes, paying attention to those that access both cellular and Wi-Fi. Be sure to review and adjust data permissions as needed. This vigilance can help you identify and remove any malicious software lurking in the background.

Unwanted Guests:

Have you ever stumbled upon strange new apps on your device that you swear you never downloaded? Don’t ignore them! These could be malicious programs, designed to display intrusive ads or collect your data in the background. While app stores like Google Play and App Store are vigilant, downloading apps from unknown sources is a risky gamble. Stick to official stores and be cautious of any “gifts” that appear without your permission. 

Phone Stuttering?

You know how your phone typically performs during gaming or daily tasks. If all your apps suddenly start lagging and slowing down for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of resource-hungry viruses lurking in the background. Regularly check which apps are consuming the most resources and remove any suspicious ones.

Website Woes:

You may notice changes to the appearance of familiar websites if your phone becomes infected with malware. This is due to the possibility that the malware will function as a proxy, snooping on your connection and sending you to phony websites that will steal your data.

Remember:

While these signs alone don’t guarantee phone monitoring, they can point toward a malicious app or virus. If you suspect your phone is compromised, run a scan with a trusted antivirus application. Don’t hesitate to perform a factory reset if the issue persists. Remember, staying vigilant is key! Practice safe browsing and downloading habits, and always update from official sources.