THERE are some sinister signs that your Android or iPhone has been compromised – and crooks are spying on you.
Cybersecurity experts have revealed the clues to look out for, and some of them are surprising.
Importantly, it’s easier to end up being hacked with “spyware” than you might think.
Sophisticated cyber-criminals can turn you into a victim in a matter of seconds – and it might only take a tiny mistake on your part.
“While browsing the internet, you may accidentally install spyware on your phone without even knowing,” explained Keeper Security’s Tim Tran.
“Android phones are known to be more susceptible to spyware than iPhones.
“However, anyone who owns a smartphone needs to watch out for spyware – especially if your phone is outdated or jailbroken.
“Some ways you can tell if spyware is installed is if your phone’s camera and mic turn on randomly, you hear a noise during phone calls, or you see unfamiliar apps and files on your phone.”
Spyware could target sensors on your phone like the camera or microphone.
Or it could log key data like the taps and keys you input or your device’s location.
And it’s also possible for some spyware to steal your files – potentially including private photos and videos.
WARNING SIGNS
According to Keeper Security, there are six signs to watch out for.
First up is a strange sound during phone calls, which could be “a beeping noise, distant voices, and static”.
“Sometimes these issues can be attributed to poor signal, but they can also be a sign of spyware,” Tran explained.
“Spyware will try to tap into your phone calls to listen to your conversations and record them.”
Second is a sudden drop in how well your phone performs.
This could be slowing down, or experiencing much faster battery drain.
These are signs that spyware is potentially operating in the background, putting strain on your phone’s resources.
Thirdly, beware of your microphone or camera turning on randomly.
Recent versions of Android and iOS for iPhone have indicators at the top of the screen when either sensor is active.
If you trace these back to suspicious apps or notice strange activity, you should take action.
Fourth is noticing unfamiliar apps or files on your phone.
This can be a key sign that your device has been compromised.
Fifth is a surge in pop-ups, error messages, ads, scam texts and more.
“These messages can be caused by adware that is installed alongside spyware on your phone,” Tran said.
“Adware will send you messages trying to trick you into giving up your personal information.”
And sixth, watch out if your phone is constantly overheating.
This is similar to the performance issue warning sign: spyware will use your phone’s resources, and could cause overheating due to demanding behavior in the background.
If you’re worried you’ve been hacked, make sure to delete any unfamiliar apps and files, reboot your phone, and install the latest software updates.
You can also shut off access to your camera and microphone for any app of your choosing in your settings.