Technology is a powerful tool, but it can also be used as a weapon in abusive situations. Spyware allows perpetrators to control, abuse, and track your movements. Unfortunately, spyware is often cheap and easy to install, making it difficult to detect.
Signs your device may have spyware:
- Battery drains unusually fast
- The device turns on unexpectedly
- High data usage
- Phone lights up but doesn’t ring
- Strange noises during calls
- Excessive pop-ups
Steps to protect yourself:
- Install anti-virus software (Norton/Total AV/McAfee) and run malware scans
- Delete unrecognised apps on your devices (and your children’s)
- A perpetrator may be able to access your devices via the Wi-Fi network, accessible without being inside your home. If you can, reset the password.
- Joint passwords for accounts (Amazon/eBay, etc) could provide information to your device and check for suspicious activity.
- Change passwords on smart devices like Alexa
Be mindful that others might notice if they lose access to your information. Consider whether it’s safe to make the changes now. Also, save any significant digital evidence in a secure location.
If anti-virus software is out of reach, resetting your device is another option. Follow the below instructions for a factory reset:
Apple
Step 1: If you suspect your iCloud has been hacked, you should change your Apple ID password immediately.
Step 2: Back up the Apple device.
Go to Settings>General-Select >iCloud-Select>iCloud backup
Step 3: Factory Reset
If the problem persists, you can perform a factory reset to remove all apps and data from your device.
This will eliminate the spyware but also mean you’ll lose any files, photos, videos, and documents stored on your iPhone – so it’s an extreme step. Nevertheless, it’s the most comprehensive approach to deleting spyware on an iPhone. To run a factory reset:
-From the General settings, choose the Transfer or Reset iPhone option.
-Tap Erase All Content and Settings, then tap Erase iPhone to proceed.
This will revert the iPhone to its factory state, so you can use it safely without fear of compromising your privacy.
Remember, cyberstalking is a crime in many countries and can be reported to the police.
Android
Step 1: To back up your device using Google, navigate to Settings> tap Google and select> Backup.
Step 2: Ensure the Backup to Google Drive option is switched on. If you have Google One installed, it might display as a Backup by Google One. Then, press the >Back up Now button.
Step 3: Go to settings>Accounts and backup>Reset>Factory data reset