Most people don’t think of their phones as something susceptible to malicious actors. Unfortunately, phones can be just as vulnerable as computers, but the way they are targeted is different. Quite often, it’s through spyware.
Modern smartphones are used constantly and store far more personal data than most laptops or desktop computers ever have. Through our phones, malicious actors can potentially access messages, photos, location history, emails, and banking apps. That’s why phones are an increasingly attractive target for spyware.
The scariest part is how good Spyware is at staying invisible, quietly monitoring what you do and sending that information somewhere else. It doesn’t even always require advanced hacking. Sometimes all it takes is a malicious link, a suspicious app, or brief physical access to your device.
So, how can you protect your phone and personal data? Let’s break down how spyware works, how to recognize it, and what you can do to safeguard yourself.
What spyware actually does on your phone
Spyware is designed to collect information without your knowledge. Depending on how advanced it is, it can:
- Track your location in real time
- Read messages (including SMS and sometimes app notifications)
- Access your microphone or camera
- Monitor calls and contacts
- Capture keystrokes or app activity
Some of the most advanced spyware can operate with very little visible impact on the device. While those advanced tools are rare and usually used in targeted attacks on high-profile people, simpler forms of spyware are much more common and often used in scams, stalking, or fraud.
How spyware ends up on a phone
The most common ways for spyware to end up on a device are:
- Malicious links (phishing) – One of the most common methods is a link sent via SMS, WhatsApp, email, or social media that leads to fake login pages, hidden downloads, or browser-based exploits
- Suspicious or unofficial apps – Installing apps from outside official stores increases risk significantly.
- Physical access to your device – If someone has access to your unlocked phone, even briefly, they may be able to install monitoring apps, change security settings, or enable tracking features.
- Public Wi-Fi and network-based attacks – While less common than phishing, insecure networks can sometimes be used to intercept data or redirect users to malicious pages.
Signs your phone may have spyware
Although Spyware is designed to stay hidden, there can still be signs that something isn’t right:
- Unusual battery drain – If your phone suddenly starts losing battery much faster than usual, it could be running background processes
- Increased data usage – Spyware needs to send data somewhere. Unexpected spikes in mobile data usage can be a warning sign.
- Overheating – A phone that gets warm even when not in use may be running hidden processes.
- Strange apps or settings – Look for apps you don’t remember installing, unfamiliar permissions, unknown configuration profiles (especially on iPhone)
- Unexpected pop-ups or redirects – Frequent redirects or pop-ups may indicate malicious activity.
How to check your iPhone or Android for spyware
You don’t need advanced tools to do a basic check.
Step 1: Review installed apps
Go through your apps carefully and remove anything unfamiliar. If you’ve ever installed an app from outside the official stores, delete it.
Step 2: Check permissions
Make sure permissions make sense for apps with access to:
- Microphone
- Camera
- Location
- Contacts
Step 3 (iPhone only): Check device profiles
Navigate to:
Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
Remove anything you don’t recognize. Check out Apple’s guidance on managing device security.
Step 3 (Android only): Run a security scan
Google Play Protect is built into Android and automatically scans installed apps on your phone. You can also use a third-party app to scan for malware and more, but make sure to only use trusted providers from the Play Store.
What to do if you suspect spyware
If something feels off, don’t ignore it.
1. Remove suspicious apps immediately
2. Change important passwords like email, banking, and cloud storage.
3. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add a second layer of protection to your device.
4. Update your device, as the latest OS updates often patch known vulnerabilities.
5. Consider a factory reset. Following a spyware scare, a full reset is often the safest option. After that, only install apps from official stores and avoid restoring backups.
6. Monitor accounts for suspicious activity such as unknown logins, password reset attempts, and unusual transactions. If you’re concerned about identity theft, here are the steps to follow.
How to protect your phone from spyware (best practices)
Preventing spyware is much easier than removing it, so here are general security best practices for keeping your mobile device safe and secure.
Keep your system updated
Both Apple and Google regularly release security updates that fix vulnerabilities.
Only install apps from official stores
Avoid:
- APK downloads
- Unofficial app stores
- Unknown links
Be cautious with links
Don’t click links from messages that feel urgent, unexpected, or unusual.
Use screen lock and device encryption
Modern smartphones include built-in encryption, but it only works if your device is properly locked with a PIN, biometrics, and auto-lock.
Limit app permissions
Not every app needs access to your microphone, camera, or location. Only permit what’s needed for the app to work and review permissions regularly.
Avoid sharing your device with anyone you don’t know or trust
Even short access can be enough to install monitoring tools.
Checklist for protecting your phone in 5 minutes
The essential steps for safeguarding against spyware:
- Update your OS
- Remove unknown apps
- Enable MFA
- Review app permissions
- Avoid suspicious links
- Use a strong screen lock
The takeaway
Spyware is one of the most insidious digital threats there is. The good news is that most spyware attacks rely on simple mistakes, like clicking the wrong link or ignoring basic security practices. By following security best practices for mobile devices, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
Frequently asked questions
Can iPhones get spyware?
Yes, although it’s less common due to Apple’s restrictions. Most cases involve targeted attacks on specific, well-known people.
Is Android more vulnerable to spyware than iPhone?
Android allows the installation of third-party apps from outside the Play Store, which can increase the risk of spyware.
Does a factory reset remove spyware?
Generally, yes, but advanced threats may require additional steps.
Can spyware access my camera or microphone?
Yes, some spyware can.
Cora is a digital copywriter for SSLs.com. Having eight years of experience in online content creation, she is a versatile writer with an interest in a wide variety of topics, ranging from technology to marketing.