How to Detect and Remove Stalkerware from Your Devices

Stalkerware poses a serious threat to digital privacy and personal safety. These invasive apps can secretly monitor your device activity, track your location, and even record your conversations. Whether installed by an abusive partner, overreaching employer, or overzealous parent, stalkerware violates your right to privacy. This guide will help you detect if stalkerware is present on your devices and take steps to remove it safely.

What is Stalkerware?

Stalkerware refers to apps or software designed to covertly monitor someone's device activity without their knowledge or consent. Unlike legitimate parental control or employee monitoring tools, stalkerware operates in stealth mode and often requires disabling security features to function.

Common capabilities of stalkerware include:

• Tracking device location
• Monitoring calls, texts, and messaging apps
• Logging keystrokes
• Accessing photos and videos
• Recording audio or video through device microphone/camera
• Viewing browsing history and app usage

Stalkerware is typically installed manually by someone with physical access to the target device. It may be disguised as a harmless app or hidden from view entirely.

Signs Your Device May Have Stalkerware

While stalkerware is designed to be stealthy, there are some potential red flags to watch for:

• Battery draining unusually quickly
• Increased data usage
• Device running hot or slow
• Unexpected sounds during calls
• Strange text messages or notifications
• Apps you don't recognize
• Changes to device settings you didn't make

The most telling sign is often that someone in your life seems to know details about your activities, location, or communications that they shouldn't have access to.

How to Check for Stalkerware

Step 1: Review your installed apps. Look for anything unfamiliar or suspicious, especially apps with generic names or icons. Pay attention to app permissions - stalkerware often requests extensive access to device functions and data.

Step 2: Check for hidden apps. On Android, look in Settings > Apps > See all apps and enable "Show system apps". On iOS, hidden apps may appear grayed out on the home screen.

Step 3: Use anti-malware software. Many reputable antivirus programs now include stalkerware detection. Run a full system scan to check for known stalkerware signatures.

Step 4: Look for rooting/jailbreaking. Some stalkerware requires elevated system access. On Android, use a root checker app. On iOS, look for Cydia or other non-App Store apps.

Step 5: Check account activity. Review your Google/Apple account for any unfamiliar devices or app installations you don't recognize.

Removing Stalkerware Safely

If you've confirmed stalkerware on your device, removal requires careful consideration:

Step 1: Assess your safety. If you're in an abusive situation, removing stalkerware could escalate the abuse. Consult a domestic violence professional about safety planning first.

Step 2: Document evidence. Take screenshots of suspicious apps, unusual account activity, or other signs of stalkerware before removal.

Step 3: Remove suspicious apps. Uninstall any apps you've identified as potential stalkerware. On Android, you may need to revoke admin privileges first.

Step 4: Reset your device. A factory reset is the most thorough way to remove stalkerware, but will erase all data. Back up important information first.

Step 5: Change passwords. Update passwords for all your accounts, especially your Google/Apple ID. Enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Step 6: Update your device. Install all available system updates to patch potential vulnerabilities.

Preventing Future Stalkerware Installation

To protect your devices going forward:

• Use strong passcodes/biometrics and don't share them
• Keep your device with you and lock it when not in use
• Disable installation from unknown sources (Android)
• Keep your operating system and apps updated
• Use reputable security software
• Be wary of unexpected gifts of new devices

Stalkerware is a serious invasion of privacy that can leave victims feeling violated and unsafe. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps to secure your devices, you can reclaim your digital privacy and peace of mind.