Hackers are using increasingly sophisticated methods to access your personal information. In an age where phone fraud, data theft and eavesdropping have become common practice, it is very important to recognize the early warning signs that you have become a target. Sensible phone use, regular checks and security measures can go a long way in protecting your information.
- Hackers use sophisticated methods to steal personal data.
- Safe use and regular device checks protect your data.
- Experts have pointed out warning signs that may indicate you have a malicious program on your device.
Our phones store a huge amount of personal data, such as messages, photos and banking information. Since they are very important, they are a prime target for hackers and various malware. Experts have revealed warning signs that could indicate someone else is controlling your device.
1. Suspicious SMS messages
Receiving strange messages from unknown numbers containing random strings of letters or numbers can be a problem. These messages often contain hidden commands for spyware installed on your device.
2. Rapid discharge of the battery
If your device’s battery drains unusually quickly or your phone heats up even when you’re not using it, it means that a background program can collect and transmit data without your knowledge.
A quick discharge of the phone may indicate a problem. (illustrative photo)
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iStock
3. Unusual phone malfunctions
Older phones can break down over time, but if your device frequently turns off, the screen is unresponsive, the camera or apps fail, spyware may be interfering with their normal functioning. You should also be careful if your phone restarts itself or its screen lights up for no reason.
4. Strange sounds during calls
Modern phones are equipped with advanced noise reduction. It means that echo, static or distant voices during calls (especially in apps like Viber, WhatsApp, FaceTime or Zoom) may indicate monitoring or recording of your conversations by a third party.
Hackers can operate on your device without your knowledge. (illustrative photo)
Source:
iStock
5. Increased use of data
Spyware is often designed to secretly send your data to hackers. Therefore, if your mobile data consumption unexpectedly increases, check which applications are running in the background.
6. Unknown applications installed
If you find apps on your device that you didn’t install, this is a serious warning sign of third-party tampering. Such programs often contain malicious software designed to steal data.
You should delete unknown apps immediately. (illustrative photo)
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iStock
7. Slow device performance
If your phone suddenly slows down, apps take longer to open, or downloads take longer than before, it may mean that information is being transferred without your knowledge.
8. Unauthorized Permissions
Apps that access your camera, microphone, or storage without your permission are a clear indication of spyware. Check your settings and remove any unknown programs.
A slow device may indicate the presence of spyware. (illustrative photo)
Source:
iStock
9. Deteriorating image quality
Programs called keyloggers, which record every keystroke on the screen, can affect device performance and even degrade photo quality. So if you notice blurry or otherwise altered images, this could signal a problem.
10. Peculiar behavior of automatic correction
If autocorrect starts to lag, make more mistakes, or behaves strangely while typing, it might mean that a hacker is tracking your device through a keylogger.
It is important that you carefully monitor the behavior of your phone. If you notice any unusual changes, you should immediately seek the help of a professional who can reveal the exact cause of the problems.
This article comes from the Ringier publishing partner website. The content and data contained in it were taken without editorial intervention.
