How to Find & Remove a Hacker From Your Phone (Easy!)

Mobile devices are susceptible to various cyber-attacks. Criminals can access your personally identifiable information, banking details, messages, and photos if your phone is hacked.

This article explains what phone hacking is, how to know if your device was hacked, and which tactics cybercriminals use. I also share how to protect your phone from hackers and how to improve your smartphone’s security.

What Is Phone Hacking?

Phone hacking refers to accessing unauthorized data stored on a mobile device or gaining remote control. Phone hacking can involve but isn’t limited to listening to calls, receiving copies of text messages, and remotely infecting the device with malware.

Cybercriminals can hack your phone remotely or gain physical access to it. Worse, by gaining control over your smartphone, they can access your accounts and connected devices, such as your laptop.

Signs Your Phone Has Been Hacked

Spotting the warning signs of a hacked phone early is essential. It helps you act fast if your device has been compromised. While symptoms can vary, certain red flags tend to show up. Here are the most common ones to watch for.

Unfamiliar Apps

Perhaps the easiest way to determine that your phone has been hacked is by checking your app list. If you notice any odd apps and you don’t remember downloading them, your phone has likely been compromised. Hackers use malware disguised as regular apps to steal user information.

Pop-ups

Most modern apps use pop-up advertisements. However, if pop-ups have become too frequent and you don’t recognize their source, be wary.

The nature of the pop-ups can be a giveaway, too. You might see messages claiming you’ve won a prize, fake virus warnings, even if you don’t have antivirus software installed, or alerts about leaked personal information. These messages will sound genuine and urgent. In reality, these are likely not genuine—they’re usually just tactics to bait you into tapping the ads.

You may see ads like this if you visit certain websites, so they’re not a foolproof way to determine your phone has been hacked.

Shortened Battery Life

Suspicious apps and malware that hackers install on affected smartphones use additional battery power. If your mobile phone’s battery has been draining too fast recently, it might have been hacked. Although it might also mean your device’s battery has become old and needs to be replaced, it is better to be cautious.

Increase in Data Usage

Suspicious apps that steal your data run in the background, constantly using mobile data. For this reason, you might get a higher data bill than usual.

Slow App Speeds

Malicious apps used by hackers to steal your data often require significant processing power. So, if your phone, especially a newer model, suddenly starts lagging or slowing down, it could be a sign of unauthorized activity in the background.

Unrecognized Calls and Messages

If you suspect your phone has been compromised, check your call log. Hackers might be impersonating you to steal your personal information from your friends and family. Some hackers use SMS trojans to send and receive messages from hacked phones.

Your Device Gets Hot

Your mobile phone might get unusually hot during casual use if suspicious apps run in the background. So if you find your phone’s temperature getting high with or without usage, it’s better to get it checked for suspicious activities. Too high a temperature also negatively affects the phone’s overall performance and may damage its battery.

Strange Behavior

Strange behavior refers to any unexpected changes or activity on your phone that haven’t been covered above. You might notice app permissions have changed or that your phone is switching off for no apparent reason. Note that these signs don’t always signal a hack, but checking your device for suspicious apps is worthwhile.

Common Tactics Used by Phone Hackers

Contrary to widespread misconception, phone hackers aren’t geniuses who steal your data by writing long, sophisticated code. Usually, their methods are much more straightforward. Learning about common tactics used by phone hackers will help you mitigate the risk.

Hacking Software

Hackers can sneak into your mobile device using specialized software. They can trick you into installing it via a sketchy website or phishing attack. Sometimes, hackers install it when they physically access a phone.

The most common type of hacking software is keyloggers. Such apps record information as you type or talk on your phone and send it right to the criminals.

Another type of hacking software is trojans. Usually, hackers disguise trojans as legitimate apps, and users install them voluntarily. In reality, these are the malware that extracts personal information and banking details from your device.

Social Engineering

Often, people open the door to hackers themselves. Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology instead of using sophisticated hacking software.

For example, hackers might email an employee asking for login credentials instead of spotting a security vulnerability in a company’s systems. Typically, hackers using social engineering impersonate others or offer tempting rewards.

The most common social engineering technique is phishing. Hackers send bulk phishing messages by text or voice, hoping someone will be gullible enough to trust them. The phishing messages rely on human psychology more than technical expertise. These messages are crafted to manipulate emotions, exploit cognitive biases, and take advantage of human behavior to deceive individuals into disclosing sensitive information.

Some use an advanced form of phishing called whaling. They research the victim and personalize communications to make them more effective.

Another type of social engineering hack is pretexting. It involves creating a story to convince the victim to share valuable information.

Social engineering attacks can get highly creative, so you should know the signs to spot them. Mimicking someone’s identity is a common hacker tactic. Hackers may also reach you via the hacked device of someone you know. So, be suspicious if someone you know sends an unusual text.

You should also be aware of whether a stranger makes you an offer that’s too good to be true. For example, a “Nigerian prince” might want to send a million dollars in cash for no reason.

Lastly, hackers might create a sense of urgency to prevent you from thinking twice. For example, fake technical support might insist you change your password and share it with them on the spot.

Bluetooth Hacking

Bluetooth hacking requires hackers to be near the attack target. If you keep Bluetooth on and the connection isn’t protected, hackers can link their devices to yours and use specialized software to steal your data.

SIM Card Swapping

SIM card swapping can be considered a type of social engineering attack. However, cybercriminals target your mobile data provider instead of targeting you.

Hackers contact your mobile data provider, pretend to be you, and ask for a replacement SIM card. Once the hacker gets their hands on the new SIM card, your old SIM is blocked. In this way, they steal your phone number.

Malvertising

The web is full of advertisements. Some ads are irrelevant or annoying, but others are straight-up dangerous. Hackers piggyback into your phone’s advertising ecosystem, replacing browser or app ad banners with malware.

The goal is to make you click on the link. Once you do that, the ad directs your phone to a compromised server. Then, an exploit kit hosted on the server executes and detects a vulnerability in your system. As a result, hackers can install malware on your phone. This is why it is essential not to click on any unknown links.

Malware

Even if you aren’t gullible enough to click on a suspicious ad, your phone risks getting infected with malware. The risk is particularly high with jailbroken phones.

Jailbreaking refers to deliberately lowering a device’s security barrier to install apps from unofficial sources. It gives you more freedom, but also gives hackers more ways to access your data.

First, cybercriminals develop apps that users genuinely want, such as a free VPN. When you download such an app on your mobile phone, it detects whether your device is jailbroken. If so, the app steals personally identifiable data and sends it to hackers.

Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

Think twice before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. Hackers might create malicious free public Wi-Fi networks. Once you connect to the hotspot, the attacker can access the online data you send or receive, including your login credentials, banking details, and personally identifiable information.

However, public networks aren’t the only way to carry out an MITM attack. Hackers might also intercept your communications using an insecure website based on HTTP rather than the modern and secure HTTPS.

How to Remove a Hacker from Your Phone

Now that you have identified the signs of a hacked phone, it is easy to find out if your phone is hacked, too. However, this is not enough. If you notice odd activity on your phone, it is essential to know what to do next. How can you remove a hacker from your phone? Depending on the attacker’s tactic, you can try the following solutions.

Remove Suspicious Apps

If you notice any apps you don’t remember installing, you should probably delete them. Your friend or child could have installed an unfamiliar app, but don’t risk it even if it looks legitimate. Plus, it’s a great way to free up some of your phone’s memory.

Remember that some unfamiliar apps may be default apps on your device that you’ve never noticed or used. Some default apps can’t be fully uninstalled.

Disable Jailbreaks

While jailbreaking can grant access to additional features and customization options, it also weakens your phone’s security. It may disrupt future operating system updates, making your device more susceptible to threats.

Clear Your Device’s Cache

The cache is data temporarily stored by your device to improve load times and user experience. For example, websites and apps might cache your passwords to keep you logged in for the next session. However, hackers accessing your cache can access your social media and other online accounts. Clear your phone and browser cache regularly to add a layer of security.

Update Your Phone’s Operating System

Your phone’s security largely depends on how up-to-date the system is. An outdated operating system is susceptible to attacks because its vulnerabilities have already been discovered and can be exploited. Updates contain security patches that fix known bugs and vulnerabilities.

Review Your App Permissions

Apps you’ve installed yourself could be malicious, too. The problem is prevalent with Android devices, as the Google Play Store gives app developers more freedom than the Apple App Store. Still, iPhones are also susceptible to malware attacks.

Review your phone permissions via the settings menu. Apps might ask permission to access your camera, microphone, GPS location, gallery, or contacts. Limit app permissions if you aren’t comfortable sharing specific data. That said, some permissions are necessary for apps to function correctly. For instance, a messaging app needs access to your contacts to let you connect with others.

Also, check which apps have administrator access. On an Android phone, navigate to Settings, then to Security. Find the setting for Device Administrators or Device Admin Apps (the exact steps may vary by device). Check which apps have administrator access and remove those that appear suspicious.

Change Your Passwords

Change passwords on all accounts accessible from your phone via an app or browser. This includes your Google account password, online banking details, and social media account information. Log out of your accounts on all devices, as the hacker might still be logged in on their device after the password change.

A reliable password manager can enhance your phone’s security. These apps generate strong, unique passwords and keep them in an encrypted vault. However, it is essential to remember that a password manager can also be hacked.

Use Antivirus Software

Do a security check with an antivirus app to identify malicious software and files. The app will then block connections with an identified hacker device to prevent it from stealing your data. Use licensed, legitimate antivirus software, as random unofficial apps might worsen matters.

Perform a Factory Reset

A factory reset wipes out all files, apps installed by you, and personal data from the device’s internal storage, leaving only factory data. It also removes any malicious apps and files.

Remember to back up your data before performing a factory reset. If all else fails, use a factory reset as a last resort.

Codes to Check If Your Android Phone Is Hacked

Hackers constantly devise more sophisticated ways to access user data. For this reason, the signs that your phone has been compromised aren’t always apparent. Fortunately, you can use specific codes to check if your Android phone is hacked.

To use these codes, go to your Android phone’s keypad, type them in, and “call” them.

IMEI Check Code

The code *#06# helps determine your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Your IMEI is like your phone’s ID because it’s unique. It can help you find your phone if it’s lost or stolen. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see your IMEI code without physically accessing your smartphone. So, it’s best to check and write it down in advance.

Call Redirection Check Code

Sometimes, hackers redirect phone calls to their numbers. Use the code *#62# to see the phone number to which your calls are forwarded. If a phone number doesn’t appear, your call data is safe. If one does occur, it could just be your default voicemail number or one associated with a secure third-party calling app, so there may be no cause for alarm.

To view and cross-reference your voicemail number, go to Settings on the call screen, then Voicemail. Find the Setup for your voicemail, which may be under Advanced Settings. Your voicemail number is under Setup.

In my case, the code *#62# indicated that my calls were being forwarded to a number ending in 0. My call settings show that my voicemail number is the same, except that it ends in a 1. Since I have no reason to suspect my phone was hacked, my calls are likely being forwarded to an old voicemail number that has since been replaced.

Diversion Check Code

The code *#21# will tell you if hackers divert your data, calls, or messages, and show the phone number to which they are being redirected.

While the previous code that checks for call redirection identified my prior voicemail number, this code did not return any results for me.

Tips to Prevent Your Phone from Being Hacked (iPhone or Android)

The best defense against phone hacks is taking proactive precautions. The mobile security tips below are also relevant for protecting your desktop or laptop computer.

Add Extra Protection

A fingerprint, pattern, or PIN on your lock screen is a basic layer of security necessary to protect your device from physical attacks. To take it a step further, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for mobile apps. This security feature double-checks your identity by asking you to enter a code or click on a link sent to another device.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN effectively mitigates the risk of MITM attacks. It masks your internet connection from cyber criminals on public hotspots using end-to-end encryption. Plus, it prevents government surveillance and gives you access to geo-blocked content.

However, be aware of free VPNs, as they may contain malware. Some free VPNs also collect user information and sell it to third parties.

I recommend a top-rated VPN like ExpressVPN, which has an independently audited no-logs policy and advanced encryption to protect your data. It isn’t cheap, but you can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Alternatively, consider Private Internet Access (PIA). This VPN allows simultaneous connections to safeguard your home network and has built-in malware protection.

If you’re avid about streaming or gaming, CyberGhost may be your best bet. This VPN is as secure as ExpressVPN or PIA and has specialty servers optimized for better speeds during certain activities.

Only Install Official Apps

Don’t download apps from third-party websites, as they are more likely to contain malware. Stick with the official app marketplace for your operating system, such as the Play Store for Android and the App Store for Apple.

Developers must pass certain security checks to publish their apps on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. However, Google and Apple’s security measures aren’t foolproof, so read reviews before installing an app. If you have an Android smartphone, be extra cautious, as Apple’s rules are stricter.

Check for typos and poor grammar in the app description, which may indicate that an app isn’t what it claims to be. Hackers often spoof real developer IDs to appear legitimate, so even a single wrong letter can help you spot malware. A small number of downloads for a popular app like WhatsApp can also indicate it’s a fraudulent copy.

Lastly, pay attention to the permissions you give third-party apps. Only give permissions essential for an app’s functionality. For example, be suspicious if a photo editing app requests access to your microphone.

Regularly Clear Your Device’s Cache

Clearing your device’s cache regularly is essential for security. It prevents hackers from accessing your accounts and improves your phone’s performance. You can clear your iPhone or Android phone cache in storage settings.

Install Updates

Don’t neglect operating system and app updates, as they can contain critical security patches. Moreover, outdated system software might negatively affect the overall device performance. For example, if your phone suddenly starts working slowly or using more battery, it might result from a lack of updates rather than malware.

Enhance Your Password Security

Many people have used the same password for all accounts for many years. Worse yet, the password might be their birthdate, the name of their pet, or other easily obtainable information.

Change your passwords regularly and use different passwords for all apps. Create stronger passwords with a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special symbols.

Ideally, use a password app. It will generate passwords for you and store them in an encrypted vault, so you don’t have to memorize them.

Don’t Click Links or Attachments from Unfamiliar Senders

Almost everyone has encountered a suspicious email at some point. While some are scams, others can appear convincing enough to make you curious or tempted to click.

Still, never click on links or attachments unless you know the sender, as they might contain malware. Be extra suspicious of emails with poor grammar, a vague subject, an odd, complicated, or seemingly random sender address, and those creating a sense of urgency.

Don’t Click on Suspicious Ad Banners

Malicious ads can redirect you to a fake website or install hacker software on your device. Sometimes, ad banners are highly relevant and appealing, but I recommend never clicking on them.

Unfortunately, not clicking on ad banners might not save you from a hacker attack. Drive-by downloads can infect your device when you load an infected page.

Invest in an ad blocker to block ads entirely or antivirus software to detect threats. You may also use a secure browser with built-in encryption.

Don’t Visit Suspicious Websites

Suspicious websites may use phishing tactics to steal your data or money or install malware on your device. Modern search engines have strict security requirements, so you’re unlikely to find such a website on the first page of Google search results.

However, hackers might send a link to such a website via email or social media messages. Or, if you dig deeper into search results, you might also come across a malicious website.

According to the Google Safe Browsing report, phishing sites are becoming increasingly common, whereas the number of malware websites is decreasing.

Using common sense is the best way to protect yourself from malicious websites. Does the website ask for sensitive information? Does it have too many pop-ups? Does it ask you to download something? If it looks unsafe, don’t risk it.

Phishing websites might look highly similar to real ones. Check whether all buttons on the website work properly and whether the URL is spelled correctly. For example, a fake Airbnb website might have a few functional pages and the URL “air-bnb.com” instead of “airbnb.com.”

Lastly, right-click on a hyperlink and select Properties. You will see the actual link destination. Don’t click if it differs from where the link claimed to lead.

Conclusion

Hopefully, these tips will help you protect yourself against hackers and safeguard your privacy. Keep in mind that mobile devices running outdated operating systems are more vulnerable to attacks. To reduce your risk, make sure to keep your system up to date and enable key security features.

If you can’t resolve your issue using the information in this guide, you may want to take your device to a professional who can diagnose and fix it.

One of the best ways to improve your security and privacy proactively is to install a high-quality VPN like ExpressVPN. A single account can protect up to five devices, including computers and other smart devices. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to me using the comment box below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Topic: How To Guides, Safety & Privacy