Have you ever had the feeling that someone knows too much about you? Maybe a jealous partner knows exactly where you went for coffee, even though you never told them. Or maybe your phone heats up in your pocket for no reason. Unfortunately, it is not just paranoia.
There is a category of programs called Stalkerware (tracking software). These are not installed by unknown hackers from other countries, but often by people you know. At Altanet Craiova we believe your privacy is sacred, so we teach you how to detect these digital spies.
What is Stalkerware and who installs it?
Stalkerware is commercial software, sometimes sold under the pretext of "parental control" or "employee monitoring". In reality, it is used to spy on the lives of adults without their consent.
Unlike classic viruses that arrive by email, Stalkerware usually requires physical access to the phone. Someone takes your phone while you are in the shower, unlocks it (if they know the PIN) and installs the app within minutes. Then the app becomes invisible on the screen, but sends everything to the spy.
What can a spy see?
Once installed, this program has full access. It can monitor:
- Your exact location: Through GPS, in real time.
- Private messages: SMS, WhatsApp, Messenger (even deleted ones).
- Photos: Access to the photo gallery and sometimes even switching on the microphone to listen to what you say in the room.
Signs that your phone is betraying you
Because the app is hidden, you have to watch for the symptoms of the "illness":
- The battery drains before your eyes: Spying uses a lot of power. If the battery used to last a day and now lasts 4 hours, that is a sign.
- High data usage: Check in the settings how much internet the phone uses. If you see a huge data usage when you have not been watching YouTube, something is sending information in the background.
- The phone is hot: If it is burning even when it is lying on the table, the processor is working hard on something hidden.
How do you get rid of the unwanted guest?
If you suspect you have Stalkerware, do not rush to delete it immediately, because the person tracking you will receive a notification that the app has been stopped. This can lead to conflict.
Here are the safe steps:
- Change all your passwords: But do it from another device (your work laptop or a friend's phone), not from the infected phone.
- Restore factory settings: It is the only 100% safe method. It wipes everything from the phone, including the virus. Make sure you have saved your important photos beforehand.
- Secure physical access: Set a complex PIN or use your fingerprint/FaceID. Do not let anyone know your unlock code.
For resources and specialised help in cases of digital domestic abuse, you can consult the global organisation Coalition Against Stalkerware.
Conclusion
Your phone should be a safe, not an open microphone. Pay attention to who has physical access to your device and do not ignore the signs of poor performance.
Do you need a professional scan of your devices, or do you want to secure your home network? Our team offers IT services for virus removal and consulting. Visit our contact page to book an appointment.
This material is part of the Altanet educational series on digital safety. Want to know what other risks you are exposed to this year? See the Complete list of cyber threats in 2026.