Confused, why is your phone behaving strangely? It may be because your phone has been hacked. Detecting the hack earlier can protect your data and personal information from cybercriminals. In this comprehensive blog, you’ll discover how to check if your phone is hacked, detect early signs, and how to prevent your phone from getting hacked.
Common signs your phone might be hacked
Look out for these red flags to check if your phone is hacked:
- Quick battery drain: If your phone’s battery is draining rapidly, it can be a sign that spyware or malware is consuming resources.
- Unknown data usage: If your monthly or daily data usage has surged without your knowledge, hidden apps may be uploading your data to hackers’ servers.
- Pop-ups: If you are facing strange pop-ups, such as ads appearing frequently, it signals the presence of a spyware or adware infection.
- Overheating: If your phone gets unusually hot during idle periods, spyware may be working overtime.
- Sluggish performance: The Presence of malware can lead the device to slow down, reboot, or freeze periodically.
- Unfamiliar apps or messages: If you spot any strange app being downloaded on your device or spot a call you didn’t make, or spot strange messages, it is a sign.
- Unusual Account Activity: If you notice suddenly changed passwords, reset emails, or unfamiliar logins to your account, it may be because of the data leak.
- Suspicious camera or microphone activity: If you notice your microphone or camera lighting up unexpectedly, it may be due to someone accessing your device remotely.
Secret codes to check if your phone is hacked
| Code | Use Case |
|---|---|
| *#21# | Check if calls/messages are being forwarded |
| *#62# | Find out where calls are being forwarded |
| ##002# | Erase all call redirections |
| *#06# | View your phone’s IMEI number |
| ##4636## (Android) | Advanced testing menu, see connection status |
| 3001#12345# (iPhone) | Field test mode, network & activity status |
How to check if your phone is hacked
- Monitor battery and data usage: Go to settings and check if there are any suspicious apps draining battery.
- Review installed apps and delete any suspicious apps.
- Run a trusted antivirus scan to detect malware.
- Use the security codes mentioned above to run a security check.
- Look for unauthorized account activity
- Watch for odd behaviors like pop-ups, overheating, and random restarts.
What to do if you find your phone hacked?
- Switch off the Wi-Fi and data connection to prevent data theft.
- Update passwords for all critical accounts like email, banking, and social media.
- Quickly delete unknown apps.
- Use a trusted antivirus to scan and clean your device.
- Alert your provider to check for unauthorized SIM/call forwarding activity.
- Backup essentials and then run a factory reset.
How to prevent your phone from being hacked and ensure mobile security
- Don’t click on suspicious or lottery links in messages.
- Avoid public Wi-dfi or connect to a secure VPN to ensure data protection.
- Install apps only from trusted app stores.
- Keep your S and phone updated to overcome vulnerabilities.
- Enable two-factor authentication for all accounts.
- Use strong and unique passwords with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols.
Takeaway
Being aware of the warning signs and learning how to spot a hacked phone are your best defenses against phone hackers. Stay vigilant and proactive about data protection in your mobile life, and keep your personal information safe.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Can someone hack my phone with just my number?
Yes, hackers can use a phone number for phishing and SIM swapping.
How do I know if someone is watching me through my phone?
Unexpected camera activity, background noise during calls, or unknown apps accessing your calls and messages are signs of a hacked phone.
Will resetting my phone remove a hacker?
Yes, a full factory reset usually removes most types of malware and spyware.
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