Your phone is your constant companion, holding everything from your photos to your private messages. But what if it's being used against you? Stalkerware is a type of software that an abuser or controlling person can secretly install on your device to track everything you do—your location, your calls, your messages, and even what you type. It's a terrifying form of digital abuse, but understanding what it is and what to look for is your first step toward regaining control.
What is Stalkerware?
Unlike commercial spyware used by governments or corporations, stalkerware is specifically designed for personal use to secretly monitor someone's device. It's often disguised as a legitimate utility app, and it operates in "stealth mode," meaning it's hard to detect. It's important to know that installing this software on someone else's device without their consent is illegal in most places.
Stalkerware can give someone a frightening amount of access to your digital life, allowing them to:
- Track your real-time location using GPS.
- Read your text messages and emails.
- Listen to your phone calls.
- View your photos and videos.
- Access your social media and browser history.
- Turn on your camera or microphone remotely.
Signs of Stalkerware on Your Device
Stalkerware is designed to be sneaky, but it's not always invisible. Trust your instincts. If you have a feeling something is wrong, you may be right. Here are some red flags to watch for:
- Unusual Battery Drain: Is your phone's battery suddenly dying much faster than usual, even when you're not using it heavily? Stalkerware running in the background can consume a lot of power.
- High Data Usage: Check your phone bill or data usage. A sudden, unexplained spike in data consumption could be a sign that the software is secretly sending your information to another server.
- Strange Phone Behavior: Does your phone suddenly turn on or off without you touching it? Does it make unusual noises during calls? Does it get hot even when it's not charging or in use? These can all be signs of hidden activity.
- Unfamiliar Apps: Go through your list of installed apps. Stalkerware can be disguised with a generic name like "System Info" or "Device Health." If you see an app you don't remember installing, research it.
- Someone Knows Too Much: The most common sign is often a change in the abuser’s behavior. They may know details about your conversations or where you have been without a logical explanation.
What to Do If You Suspect Stalkerware
Your safety is the top priority. Removing stalkerware can sometimes escalate the abuser's behavior, as they'll know you're aware of the monitoring.
- Prioritize Your Safety: Before you do anything, consider your personal safety. If you are in an abusive situation, reach out to a domestic violence helpline or a trusted local resource. A professional can help you create a safety plan. Do not use the suspected device to search for help.
- Preserve Evidence: If it is safe to do so, document what is happening. Take screenshots of suspicious apps or text messages. A professional can advise you on how to preserve this evidence for potential legal action.
- Use a Secure Device: To get help or change passwords, use a device that you know is safe—like a friend's phone, a computer at a public library, or a work computer.
- Remove the Stalkerware: The most effective way to remove stalkerware is to do a factory reset of your phone. This will erase everything on the device, including the malicious software. Be sure to back up your important photos and contacts first. After the reset, set up your phone as a new device and use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
By staying aware and taking these steps, you can help protect your privacy and regain control of your digital life.
