[14 Ways] How to Stop Someone from Spying My Cell Phone

Smartphones store almost everything about our lives - from personal chats and photos to banking details and location data. That's why protecting your device from spying or unauthorized access is more important than ever.

If you've ever thought, "How to stop someone from spying on my phone?" - you're not alone. Whether someone is trying to track your movements, read your messages, or secretly monitor your activities, there are practical steps you can take to stay secure. This guide will walk you through the common signs your phone might be spied on and what you can do to protect yourself.

Part 1: 5 Signs That Your Phone Might Be Spied

If you suspect that your phone has been compromised, look out for these warning signs that could indicate spying or hidden tracking software:

• Rapid Battery Drain: If your phone's battery starts dying much faster than usual, it could mean that background apps - possibly spyware - are running without your knowledge.
• Unusual Data Usage: Spy apps often transmit collected data (like location or messages) to external servers. A sudden spike in data usage might be a sign of such activity.
• Strange Background Noises During Calls: Hearing static, echoes, or other odd sounds while on a call may indicate that someone is intercepting or recording your conversations.
• Slow Performance or Overheating: If your device lags, freezes, or overheats even when you’re not using heavy apps, it could be due to hidden spyware draining your phone’s resources.
• Suspicious Pop-Ups or Notifications: Unexpected messages, pop-ups, or unfamiliar app notifications may signal that malicious software has been installed.

If any of these signs sound familiar, check app permissions, install security apps, update your system, and consider a factory reset for a fresh start.

Part 2: What Data Can Be Spied from Someone on Your Phone

Before learning how to stop someone from spying on your phone, it's important to understand what kind of personal data could be at risk. Many people are shocked to discover just how much information spyware can secretly collect. Here's what someone might access if your phone has been compromised:

• Location Data: Your real-time GPS location and a history of where you have been.
• Media Files: All of the photos and videos stored on your device.
• Keystrokes (Keylogging): Everything you type, including passwords, search queries, and private messages.
• Live Surroundings: Some advanced spyware can remotely activate your microphone or camera to eavesdrop on your surroundings or even watch you through your phone.
• Communications: Your call logs, text messages, and app chats can all be monitored or recorded, giving spies access to your private conversations.

Part 3: 8 Ways to Stop and Remove Spyware

If you suspect your phone is compromised, it's time to take action. Here are eight ways you can stop someone from spying on your phone. If interested, here're 8 more methods to turn off location tracking on iPhone.

Way 1. Check and Delete Suspicious App

If you notice unusual behavior or apps you didn't install, it could be a sign of spyware. Some signs include quick battery drain, unexplained data usage, and unusual notifications. To remove suspicious apps, delete them immediately and consider running an anti-spyware app for additional security.

Way 2. Check App Permissions

Spyware often hides within apps that request unnecessary permissions. Periodically review your app permissions by going to Settings > Privacy on iOS and Settings > Apps & notifications on Android. If an app has access to your location, contacts, or microphone without a clear need, disable these permissions.

Way 3. Turn on Airplane Mode

When you suspect your phone is being spied on, enable Airplane Mode right away. This temporarily cuts off all network connections, including Wi-Fi, cellular data, and Bluetooth, preventing spyware from transmitting your personal information.

Use this safe period to back up important files before taking additional security steps.

Way 4. Be Mindful of Bluetooth Connections

Spyware can occasionally be delivered via Bluetooth connections. Avoid pairing with unfamiliar devices and disable Bluetooth when not in use by toggling it off in Settings > Bluetooth. This simple step can prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to your phone.

Way 5. Avoid Public Wi-Fi or Use a VPN

Public Wi-Fi networks can be hotspots for hackers to intercept data. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks, or if necessary, connect through a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection. VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost are well-known for privacy and security.

Way 6. Disable Location Sharing

Location sharing can reveal your movements in real time, so turn it off if you want to stop someone from spying your phone. On iOS, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services and control individual app permissions. On Android devices, check location sharing settings in Settings > Location and disable or limit app access.

Way 7. Update System Version

Both Android and iOS release frequent updates that include patches for security vulnerabilities. Ensure your operating system and apps are updated regularly to benefit from these security enhancements. On iOS, go to Settings > General > Software Update. On Android, go to Settings > Software Update and check for any new updates.

If your iPhone has been jailbroken, updating your iOS version can also help restore your device's default security protections.

Way 8. Factory Reset Device if Necessary

If you believe your phone has been compromised beyond recovery, a factory reset can wipe out all software and spyware present on the device. Before doing so, back up essential data, then reset your device by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings on iOS, or Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data on Android.

After resetting, set up your device as new - avoid restoring from potentially infected backups.

Part 4: 6 Ways to Enhance Protection and Stop Future Spying

Once your phone is free from spyware, the next step is to make sure it stays that way. Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your personal information safe. Here's how to stop someone from spying on your phone in the future with some smart security habits and tools.

Way 1. Use a Strong Passcode and Biometrics

One of the most straightforward defenses against spying is a strong passcode, along with biometric options like fingerprint or facial recognition. Avoid using easily guessed passcodes, such as "1234" or birthdays, and opt for longer, alphanumeric passcodes if possible. On iOS, enable this in Settings > Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode. For Android, go to Settings > Security > Screen lock.

Way 2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication offers an additional layer of security for accessing your accounts, including email and social media. Even if someone has your password, they won't be able to access your accounts without the second verification. For iOS, enable it through Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security. On Android, set it up through your Google account settings.

Way 3. Use an Anti-Spyware App

Install a reputable anti-spyware or antivirus app for real-time protection. Reliable options like Avast, Norton, and McAfee offer tools to detect, block, and remove spyware automatically.

Most importantly, only download these apps from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store. Avoid sketchy third-party security apps - many of them disguise malware as "protection." And don't forget to run regular scans to keep your phone secure.

Way 4. Communicate via Secure Messaging App

Using secure messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram for private communications can provide end-to-end encryption, making it much harder for anyone to intercept your messages. Keep these apps updated to ensure that their security protocols are current.

Way 5. Avoid Clicking Phishing Links

Phishing links are one of the most common ways spyware sneaks into your device. Be cautious of messages or emails with unexpected links - even if they appear to come from people or companies you know. When in doubt, don't click. Instead, visit the website directly or verify with the sender through another channel.

Way 6. Cover Your Camera When It's Not in Use

For an extra layer of privacy, consider using a slidable webcam cover or a small sticker to cover your phone's front and back cameras. This simple step can prevent hackers or malicious apps from secretly turning on your camera without your consent.

Part 5: Bonus - How to Stop Someone from Spying Location on Your Phone

If you're worried that someone might be tracking your phone's GPS location, there's an effective way to protect your privacy - spoofing or changing your phone's location. One of the best solutions is to use a professional location-changing tool like TunesKit Location Changer. This trusted software allows both iOS and Android users to instantly modify their GPS location without rooting or jailbreaking their devices.

With five flexible modes (Direct Change, Two-Spot, Multi-Spot, Jump Teleport, and Joystick), you can simulate movement or teleport anywhere with just a few clicks. Its simple interface makes hiding your real location effortless, helping you block unwanted tracking and keep your whereabouts private.

The following steps will show you some effective solutions on how to change location to stop someone from spying your cell phone by using TunesKit Location Changer.

Step 1 Connect Device to Computer

TO begin with, download and install TunesKit Location Changer on your computer. Then, connect your device to the computer when TunesKit Location Changer is installed on your computer successfully. Before changing the device location, you should select a location modify mode first. Click on the Start button for the next step.

Step 2 Change Device Location

In this phase, you can change the GPS location on your device to stop someone from spying you cell phone. Just set up the Start point and end point on the map, and click on the Start Modifying button to change the device location. You can set and change the movement speed as you want.

Wrapping Up

In an era of heightened digital surveillance, it's essential to proactively stop someone from spying your cell phone. By regularly updating software, being cautious with permissions, using security features such as 2FA and anti-spyware, and using location changing tools like TunesKit Location Changer, you can significantly reduce the chances of unauthorized access. These measures help secure your data and give you peace of mind, knowing that your privacy is protected. Taking small but consistent steps toward phone security can make a substantial difference in safeguarding your personal information.