Is Your Phone Hacked? How to Tell and What to Do

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Elf Labs is creating a new gaming experience by combining artificial intelligence with virtual reality. Phones today are more secure than ever, making it harder, but not impossible, for hackers to take control. iPhones have strong protections built in, and while Android devices have improved, they still trail slightly in some areas. Still, phone hacks are more common than most people realize.

In rare cases, sophisticated spyware like Pegasus, used by governments to target high-profile individuals, can bypass even top-tier security. But for the average user, the real risk often comes from common tactics that exploit human error or weak settings.

I recently received an email from Joyce in Corbin, Kentucky, who wrote: "I have a family member whose phone has been taken over by someone. It controls her phone at times, so she can't call. She can only text, not call. How do they take control of your phone? And what can you do?"

It's a frightening situation, and unfortunately, it happens more often than it should. Let's walk through how attackers gain access to your phone and what you can do to stop it or recover.

Congestible Threats on Your Phone

You don't need spy-grade tech to hack a phone. The truth is, most phones get compromised not by brute force, but by everyday tricks that prey on users' habits and software gaps.

Phishing is one of the most common methods. This usually involves receiving a fake text, email or even a phone call designed to trick you into clicking a malicious link or sharing sensitive information. It could look like a message from your bank, a delivery service or even a friend.

SIM-swapping is another major threat. In this scam, someone convinces your phone provider to move your number to a SIM card. Once they gain control, they can read your texts, take calls and access accounts that rely on your number.

Malicious apps are also a big risk, especially on devices where users sideload apps or install them from unofficial sources. Some apps appear harmless but are designed to spy on your activity, steal data or give remote access to an attacker.

Public Wi-Fi networks can be another weak spot. On an unsecured network, hackers can intercept your data or inject malware into websites. Even Bluetooth can be a vulnerability if it's left on in public.

Signs Your Phone Has Been Hacked

Not every glitch or slowdown on your phone means you've been hacked. Sometimes, it's just a buggy app, a bad update or your phone running low on storage. But there are a few clear signs that should make you stop and investigate further.

If your phone is suddenly acting strange, like sending texts you didn’t write, installing apps you don’t recognize or draining your battery much faster than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

Unexpected pop-ups, background noise during calls or your phone heating up even when idle can also be red flags. Another clue is if your contacts start getting messages or calls from you that you didn’t send.

How to Protect Your Phone

Want to keep your phone safe from hackers? Follow these essential steps to protect your device, your data, and your privacy.

1. Change Your Passwords and Delete Suspicious Apps or Files

One of the first things to do if you suspect your phone has been compromised is to change your passwords, especially for critical accounts like email, banking and social media. Make sure your new passwords are strong and unique.

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Beware of potential phishing attacks and install strong antivirus software. Phishing attacks try to trick you into revealing sensitive information by pretending to be trustworthy sources like banks or friends.

2. Regularly Update Your Phone’s Operating System and Apps

Developers release updates not only to add new features but also to patch security flaws that hackers can exploit. Ignoring updates leaves your device vulnerable to attacks, so make it a habit to install them as soon as they become available.

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Two-factor authentication is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your accounts. With 2FA enabled, logging in requires two steps: your password plus a second verification method like a code sent to your phone.

3. Avoid Connecting to Public Wi-Fi Networks If Possible

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4. Lock Your SIM with Your Carrier

Contact your mobile provider and set up a PIN or port-out protection for your account. This prevents scammers from transferring your number without your permission, a key defense against SIM swapping.

5. Remove Suspicious Apps and Unknown Files

Take time to review all the apps installed on your phone. Uninstall anything you don’t recognize, no longer use or that seems suspicious.

6. Use a Personal Data Removal Service

If your phone has been compromised, it’s possible that your personal information, like your name, address, phone number or email is already being shared or sold online.

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A personal data removal service can scan data broker sites and request your information be deleted, reducing your risk of further exposure. These services offer ongoing monitoring to help you stay protected even after a hack.

7. Factory Reset Your Device as a Last Resort

If your phone continues to act strangely after you’ve tried other fixes, a factory reset on your iPhone or Android might be necessary. This process erases all data and settings, essentially giving you a fresh start.

Bbefore doing this, back up your important files, photos and contacts because a factory reset will delete everything on your device.

Phone hacking may seem like something that only happens in movies or to high-profile individuals, but the truth is anyone can be a target. Most attacks rely on simple tricks and human error, not advanced hacking skills.

Stay Alert, Keep Your Software Up to Date, and Follow Good Security Habits

To protect your device, your data, and your privacy, stay alert, keep your software up to date and follow good security habits. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of common tactics that exploit human error or weak settings.

Should Phone Companies Be Doing More to Stop These Kinds of Attacks?

Let us know in the comments below if you think phone companies should be doing more to stop these kinds of attacks, or is it all on us? Write to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends."

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IS YOUR PHONE HACKED? HOW TO TELL AND WHAT TO DO