How to tell if your phone has been hacked and how to protect yourself

Today we carry our phones with us. for absolutely everything: banking, work, leisure, and personal lifeHaving someone break into that device isn't just a technological nuisance; it can pose economic, privacy, and even physical security problems. That's why, when the question arises of “My phone has been hacked or I’m just being paranoid.”It's helpful to know how to resolve doubts with sound judgment.

Contrary to what you see in the movies, a compromised phone doesn't usually fill up with little windows displaying green code running across the screen. Most of the time, the hack is silent and disguised as a common phone glitch. Even so, there are many Signals, checks, and codes that allow you to detect if your mobile phone has been tapped, and also a battery of measures to clean it and protect it for the future.

What does it mean when your mobile phone is hacked and how does it happen?

When someone hacks your phone, they get accessing information, features, or accounts without your permissionIt doesn't matter if you have Android or iPhoneWith the right tools, either one can fall into the hands of an attacker.

To achieve this, they resort to different types of malicious software (malware)From spyware that silently monitors everything you do, to adware loaded with intrusive ads, or ransomware that locks your phone and demands payment. In many cases, the goal is financial (stealing banking credentials, card details, or emptying accounts), but there is also a lot of stalkerware used for... monitoring partners, family members, or employees.

In addition to classic malware, attackers exploit human error and security vulnerabilities. They can rely on social engineering (phishing, smishing, fake calls), unsecured Wi-Fi networks, fake apps, manipulated websites or even more advanced techniques such as SIM swapping or juice-jacking at public charging stations.

Main signs that your mobile phone may have been hacked

A compromised phone doesn't always show its face, but it usually leaves a trace. It's worth paying attention to overall performance, resource consumption, and any unusual behavior. The more signs that match, the more trouble you'll be in trouble. It is more likely that there is something strange installed on the device..

Strange changes in performance and battery life

One of the most typical clues is that the phone suddenly start going much slower Even if the system isn't very old or full. Malware works in the background, hogging processor and memory, so apps open slowly, crash, or close unexpectedly.

It is also common that The battery blows for no apparent reason.It's normal for battery life to decrease slightly over time, but if you notice a sudden drop in battery life within a few days, or your phone runs out of power even though you hardly use it, there may be hidden processes connecting to remote servers or recording everything you do.

Another classic symptom is the phone overheating while idleIf your device gets lukewarm or even very hot while you're barely touching it and you're not watching videos or playing games, something is overloading it from the inside. That "something" is often spyware, cryptominers, or Trojans sending data.

Data usage and bill skyrocketed

When a mobile phone is infected, the malware can dedicate itself to constantly uploading information to the internetFrom photos and videos to call logs and credentials. That translates into a abnormal increase in mobile data usage that doesn't fit your usual use.

The same applies to the bill: if you see that they suddenly appear Calls to strange numbers, premium SMS messages, or charges you don't recognizeIt is possible that the attacker is using your line to make calls, send mass messages, or subscribe you to paid services without your knowledge.

Applications and behaviors you don't recognize

A very clear warning sign is finding apps you don't remember installingThey often come disguised with generic names like "System Update," "Cleaner," "Security Service," or similar to avoid detection. Others are disguised as simple games, flashlights, or calculators.

In addition to the new apps, you might notice strange behaviors: icons appearing and disappearing, apps opening on their own, the camera or microphone that activates for no apparent reason (What is camfecting?), or notifications from services you don't use. All of this can indicate that spyware is running.

Messages, emails, and social media with ghost activity

If your contacts tell you they're receiving messages from your number or accounts that you did not sendThere is a high probability of compromise. Attackers use your identity to spread scams and infected links that appear credible to friends and family.

It's also a bad sign to start receiving emails or SMS messages with verification codes and password change requests that you did not request. This usually indicates that someone has your credentials and is trying to access your accounts using your mobile phone to confirm access.

Pop-ups, intrusive ads, and strange glitches

A sudden bombing of pop-up windows, strange banners or full screen adsEven without opening the browser, it points to adware or apps that have become malicious. Sometimes, the browser also starts redirecting you to spam pages or pages that look different than usual.

Other signs to watch out for are Random restarts, unexpected shutdowns, settings changes without your input, or difficulty turning off your phoneCertain types of malware attempt to prevent you from turning off or restarting your device in order to remain operational.

Problems with online accounts and banking

If you notice unusual access to your email, social media, games, or platforms streamingor you receive notifications from logins from locations or devices you don't recognizeIt's possible that the entry point was your mobile phone, especially if you use it for everything.

In economic terms, attention must be paid to banking or investment transactions that you don't remember makingCards used on unknown websites or loans taken out in your name. account hack Financial fraud is one of the worst side effects of a compromised mobile phone.

Check if your mobile phone has been hacked: steps and useful tricks

Suspecting something is one thing, having solid evidence is another. Luckily, both Android , the iOS They offer tools and menus that allow Review permissions, usage, and call forwardingin addition to having security apps that help detect intruders.

Review the installed apps and their permissions

Start by going into the applications section of the settings and review the complete list carefully.Pay attention to unfamiliar names, strange icons, or tools you've never used. Remember that spyware apps often hide behind system names.

Then, go section by section (camera, microphone, location, contacts, SMS…) and Check which apps have permission to access each item. That WhatsApp It's normal for a flashlight app or a supposed calculator to use the microphone and contacts; it's not so normal. If something seems off, revoke its permissions and consider uninstalling it.

Analyzes battery usage and data

You can check in the battery and data usage settings Which applications are taking up the most resources?Review that list carefully: if you see an almost unknown app at the top, or a tool that you barely open but devours battery or gigabytes, that's reason enough to investigate.

Keep in mind that stealing passwords or texts uses very little data, but Uploading photos, videos, real-time locations, or recordings does generate significant spikes.Therefore, a sudden increase in consumption can indicate an information leak.

View call history, SMS messages, and call forwarding

Another key check is the call and message history. Check if there are any outgoing calls to numbers that are not yoursEspecially international or premium-rate calls, and SMS messages you don't remember sending. Don't rely solely on your mobile phone's call log: go to your carrier's official app or website and review your usage details.

It's also very important to check if someone has activated call forwarding without your consentOn many phones you can view it from settings, but you can also use dial codes:

• * # # 21 It shows if you have unconditional call forwarding (all calls are redirected) and to which number.
• * # # 61 It teaches the detour when you don't answer; 61 ## # He cancels it.
• * # # 62 Indicates the number to which calls are forwarded if you have no coverage or your phone is switched off; 62 ## # It deactivates it.
• * # # 67 It reflects the distraction when you're busy; 67 ## # removes it.

If you see a number you don't recognize in any of those sections, Deactivate call forwarding and contact your operator. so they can check the line. If you need to, learn how to Block calls on your iPhone to add an extra layer of defense.

Check notifications for camera, microphone, and location access

The latest versions of Android and iOS display indicators or alerts when Some apps access the microphone, camera, or locationGet used to checking those notifications: it's logical for a map or video call app to send them, but if they appear when you're not using any of those apps, it's suspicious.

Also, check if you have the share real-time location with other people from apps like Google Maps, Search, or similar. It's a useful feature, but in the wrong hands, it can allow someone to know your location at any given moment without your full knowledge.

Use Play Protect, antivirus, and security tools

In Android, Google integrates a system called Play Protect which analyzes apps for malicious behavior. You can check its status by going to Google Play, tapping your profile picture, and accessing the Play Protect section. If it's disabled, enable it and run a full scan.

In addition, it is always advisable to install a trusted antivirus or security suite from official stores (Google Play or App Store). Options such as Malwarebytes, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, Avast, Norton, McAfee, or Surfshark Antivirus, among others, allow you to scan your mobile phone in depth and detect spyware, Trojans, adware, and other threats.

En iPhoneAlthough the system is more closed, it is also worth taking advantage of the function of Security check Included in iOS, it lets you review which people, apps, and devices have access to your data and revoke permissions in bulk if something seems suspicious.

Check if your data has been leaked

Another piece of the puzzle is checking if Your email or phone number has appeared in data breachesServices like Have I Been Pwned or Firefox Monitor show you which leaks your credentials have been involved in.

If you discover that one of your accounts is affected, it's quite likely that The attackers may have tried to reuse those keys on other services And, if they had access to the mobile phone, that they used the device to complete verifications by SMS or email.

Useful codes, IMEI and other technical checks

In addition to call forwarding, there are other short codes and internal mobile phone data that are useful to know in order to better control the situation when something goes wrong.

Codes to check for deviations and possible "punctures"

We have already seen the codes *#21#, *#61#, *#62# and *#67#, which are used to Show and disable conditional or unconditional call forwardingUsing them from time to time is a good idea, especially if you suspect someone has tampered with your line at the operator level.

Although they are not definitive proof of espionage (sometimes call forwarding is automatically configured for voicemail), An unknown number associated with any of them is a serious alarm. and it should lead you to talk to your phone company.

Check your IMEI with *#06#

Each mobile phone has a unique 15-digit identifier called IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity)You can see it by dialing *#06# on the keypad. It won't tell you if you've been hacked on its own, but it's essential if you need to report a theft or ask them to block the terminal distance.

Save that number in a safe place (not just on your phone) so that, in case of loss, you can provide it to the police or your mobile operator. prevent anyone from using your mobile on another line.

What to do if you think your mobile phone has been hacked

When several of the above signs coincide, the prudent course of action is to treat the phone as if it were compromised. The sooner you take action, The less room the attacker will have to continue stealing data or money.

Step 1: Disconnect your mobile phone from the internet

The first thing is to cut off communication with the outside world. Turn off Wi-Fi, mobile data, and BluetoothIf it makes you feel better, put it in airplane mode. This prevents the malware from continuing to send information and partially blocks remote control.

At this point, restarting the device also helps. safe mode (Android) or use the recovery modes offered by Apple, especially if a malicious app prevents you from uninstalling it under normal conditions.

Step 2: Remove suspicious apps and run an antivirus scan

With the phone isolated, check the list of installed apps again and Uninstall anything you're not completely sure about.If any persist, try deleting it from safe mode or from the system's application menu.

Then, reconnect your phone just enough to Install a reliable antivirus (if you didn't already have one) Download the app from the official store and run a full scan. Let the program remove or quarantine anything it detects as malware or potentially dangerous.

Step 3: Change all your passwords from a clean device

Assume that everything you typed on your mobile phone during There of compromise may have been recordedTherefore, from a trusted computer or device, change the passwords for:

• Primary and secondary email.
• Social networks and messaging apps.
• Banking, investment and payment gateway services.
• Apple ID or Google account.

Use long, unique passwords for each service and, if possible, rely on a password managerEnable two-step authentication (2FA/MFA) whenever possible, ideally with apps like Authy or physical keys rather than SMS, to minimize the risk of SIM swapping.

Step 4: Check your bank, block cards, and notify your contacts

Log into your banking apps and websites (from a clean device) and Review recent transactions, online payments, cash withdrawals, and card purchasesIf you see anything suspicious, call the bank as soon as possible, request that the cards be blocked, and, if necessary, file a police report.

It is also advisable to warn family, friends, and colleagues that Your mobile phone may have been compromised.so that they are wary of strange messages or suspicious links sent from your accounts while you are troubleshooting the problem.

Step 5: Back up important files and perform a factory reset

If, despite everything, the phone continues to behave strangely, the safest option is a factory resetBeforehand, save only the photos, documents, and contacts you really need to the cloud or a computer, avoiding copying system settings or apps that may be infected.

Once the complete wipe is done, set up the phone as new. Manually reinstall the apps from the official store And double-check permissions one by one. Don't rush to restore full backups if you suspect malware may have infiltrated them.

How they try to break into your mobile phone: the most common attack methods

To protect yourself in the long term, it's key to understand where hackers usually enterIf you eliminate or minimize those entry points, you make things very difficult for them.

Public Wi-Fi networks and charging points

Open Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, or shopping malls are a classic target. An attacker can set up a evil twin with a similar name to the legitimate one and, when you connect, intercept what you do or redirect you to fake websites.

Something similar happens with the juice-jacking: charging stations USB These devices are often manipulated and, when you plug in your phone, they exploit the data connection to install malware or steal information. It's always best to use your own charger connected to a standard wall outlet or use an external battery.

Malicious apps and downloads from unofficial sites

Many infections originate from installing apps from outside official stores or from dubious websites. The attacker packages the malware within games, camera filters, supposed security apps, or “miracle” tools that promise to clean or speed up your mobile phone.

Once you install them and give them permissions (sometimes very excessive), they can spy on your chats, locations, calls, keyboard... or serve as a gateway for other, more complex Trojans.

Phishing, smishing, and vishing

Classic phishing arrives via email, but its mobile variants, smishing (via SMS) and vishing (via phone call)These scams are commonplace. They send messages that appear to be from the bank, a courier company, government offices, or even known contacts.

The objective is that you click a link that takes you to a fake website They try to trick you into entering your username and password, or into downloading an infected file. In the case of phone calls, they try to convince you to give them one-time codes, install apps, or provide them with personal information.

SIM swapping and attacks on the line

In recent years, it has become popular SIM swapping or fraudulent duplicate SIM cardThe attacker gathers data about you (through leaks, social media, or social engineering) and convinces the operator that it is you and that you need a duplicate.

Once your number is associated with their SIM, they can intercept SMS, calls and verification codes, take control of accounts with 2FA via SMS and, in some cases, even regain access to your email and banking.

Measures to protect your mobile phone against future hacks

No system is perfect, but with a few sensible habits you can greatly reduce the chances of them getting into your phoneIt's not about being obsessed, but about not making it easy for cybercriminals.

Always update your system and applications

Android, iOS, and app updates are not just design changes: They bring patches for newly discovered security holes.If you leave your phone outdated for months and months, sooner or later someone will exploit those vulnerabilities.

Enable automatic updates for both the system and applications, and occasionally check manually for any important updates pending installation, especially security updates.

Only install apps from official stores and control their permissions.

Avoid at all costs downloading APKs from random websites or using unofficial repositories. Google Play Store The App Store applies filters and reviews. which, although not infallible, greatly reduce the risk of encountering malware.

Also, every time you install something new, take a second to read what permissions it requiresIf a wallpaper app wants access to your SMS messages and real-time location, that's a bad sign. Only grant what's absolutely necessary, and periodically review the permissions of the apps you already have.

Strengthen access to your mobile and accounts

Set up a PIN or strong password to unlock the phone And if your model allows it, supplement with fingerprint, facial recognition, or iris scanning. Avoid obvious patterns or codes like 1234, 0000, or your date of birth.

In online accounts, opt for unique and long passwords And add two-factor authentication wherever possible. If you can, use authenticator apps or physical keys instead of SMS to minimize the impact of a potential attack on your line.

Be careful how you connect to the internet and use a reliable VPN

When you have no choice but to use public Wi-Fi, try not to do sensitive operations such as online banking or purchasesIf you use them frequently, consider hiring one. VPN It would be (not one of those free ones full of fine print) that encrypts your traffic and makes it difficult for someone to snoop on what you're doing.

At home, check your settings router: Change the factory default passwordUse WPA2/WPA3 encryption and, if possible, hide the network name or at least avoid names that clearly identify you.

Activate a PIN on the SIM and location and erase functions

From your phone's settings you can activate a PIN on SIM card So that if someone puts it in another phone, they can't use it without that code. It's not foolproof against SIM swapping between carriers, but it adds another layer of security.

It is also advisable to have certain functions enabled. “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” On Android. If you lose your phone or it gets stolen, you can locate it, lock it, and even remotely erase its contents to prevent your data from falling into the wrong hands.

If you pay attention to changes in your phone's behavior, regularly check apps, permissions, routing, and usage, and get into the habit of updating, using strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious networks and links, you'll have Much of the work has been done to detect in time if your mobile phone has been hacked and to stop them. before the problem gets worse.