Stalkerware is a type of malware that tracks phone calls, messages, FaceTime calls, and GPS without the user's consent.
It is often installed by ex-partners with malicious intentions and can operate silently, making it difficult to detect. Some apps intended for innocent purposes can become stalkerware in the wrong hands. But we are here to help you figure out if you have fallen victim to stalkerware and remove it from your devices.
See related: How can I see someone's location?
Stalkerware is a form of abuse and can facilitate surveillance, abuse, and harassment. While its legality varies by country, using it for surveillance can be a criminal offense. It is often marketed as a dating spy tool, but also as child or employee monitoring software. Abusers often use seemingly innocent programs and parental control apps to monitor their partners.
How to detect it?
Victor Chebyshev, Chief Security Researcher at Kaspersky, suggests ways to detect stalkerware on devices. This malware is difficult to detect as it is designed to remain hidden. Signs that may indicate its presence include: rapid battery drain, device overheating, and an unusual increase in data traffic. Additionally, users should check app permission settings, as stalkerware apps can be disguised and have suspicious access to personal data.
How can you get infected with Stalkerware?
Apple and Google claim they don't allow stalkerware apps on the Play Store, but some manage to slip through. Some can be installed via side-loading, which requires physical access to the phone. There are also companies selling fake iPhones with modified versions of Android and malware, allowing stalkers to track people remotely. It's hard to tell if an iPhone is jailbroken, so the best solution is to buy it directly from Apple.
How to remove Stalkerware from your phone
There are two methods to remove stalkerware from your device: one is to use security software that will detect and delete the stalkerware, while the other is to factory reset your phone. Factory resetting will eliminate the offending app, but it will also erase all of your remaining data. Therefore, it is important to back up your important files before proceeding with this process.
Read also: Dating apps expose location information
The advantage of a factory reset is that you don't need to know if you have stalkerware or be able to detect it. If you suspect a hacker may have installed it on your phone, you can restore at least some of your peace of mind simply by performing this reset process.
Source: pcmag.com
