Detect and remove spyware on Android: step-by-step guide

¿How to detect and remove spyware from your Android phone? Your mobile phone stores everything from photos and private chats to banking and work credentials, so it's no wonder that spyware has become a major problem. This spyware operates stealthily, tracks your activity, and can leak sensitive data to third parties. without you noticing anything at first glance.

If it gets into your Android device, the damage can go beyond a few annoyances: identity theft, emptying of accounts, or even harassment when the spying comes from someone close to you. In this guide you will learn how to identify signs of infection, how to remove spyware step by step, and how to protect your phone from this happening again..

What is spyware and what information does it steal?

Spyware is a type of malware designed to monitor you without your knowledge. It can collect logins, location, banking details, messages, photos, and browsing history.all of this silently and continuously.

There are multiple variants with different functions. Among the most common you will find password stealers, keyloggers (keystroke recorders), spyware that records audio or video, information stealers, cookie trackers and banking trojans.

One particular category is stalkerware. In these cases, someone with physical access to your mobile phone installs the spy app to monitor you, blackmail you, or exert control.This poses a particular risk in situations involving partners or close friends. If you're unsure whether you have a spy app, consult [a website/resource/etc.]. how to know if you have a spy app on your phone.

Why is spyware especially dangerous?

All malware is a threat, but spyware is more dangerous because it hides in the system and exfiltrates data without raising suspicion. The attackers use the collected data for fraud, identity theft, extortion, and targeted cyber espionage..

Depending on the variant, it can activate the camera or microphone, track your location, or intercept what you type. Keyloggers capture every keystroke, and some Trojans create fake screens to steal credentials when you access protected websites..

Stalkerware adds a personal component: the data doesn't go to an unknown criminal, but to someone in your circle. This increases the risk of violence, coercion, or harassment, so it's advisable to act with caution to avoid compromising your physical safety..

Most common infection pathways in Android

Spyware can sneak in in several ways. Although Google filters apps from the Play Store, malware sometimes gets through and is also prevalent outside of official stores.. Learn to install third party apps with caution to reduce risks.

Phishing via SMS or email is another key channel. Messages that impersonate banks, platforms, or contacts aim to trick you into clicking and downloading something malicious or giving away your data. without realizing it.

There are also malvertising infections: ads with malicious code that redirect or force downloads if you click on them. Finally, physical access allows the installation of stalkerware or keyloggers directly on the device..

Recent real-life cases of spyware on Android

RatMilad

Detected in the Middle East, RatMilad was distributed through a fake virtual number generator (“NumRent”) promoted on Telegram and social media. The app requested dangerous permissions and, after installation, sideloaded the RatMilad RAT to spy on and steal data..

The authors even set up a website to give an appearance of legitimacy. Although it wasn't on Google Play, the art of social engineering and distribution through alternative channels facilitated its spread..

FurBall

Associated with the Domestic Kitten group (APT-C-50), FurBall has been used in surveillance campaigns against Iranian citizens since 2016, with new versions and obfuscation techniques. It is distributed through fake sites that clone real websites and lure the victim with links on social networks, email or SMS.

They have even used unethical SEO techniques to rank malicious pages. The goal is to evade detection, capture traffic, and force the download of the spyware..

PhoneSpy

Discovered in South Korea, PhoneSpy posed as legitimate apps (yoga, streaming, messaging) hosted in third-party repositories. Once inside, it offered remote control and data theft, with over a thousand devices affected..

Faketing useful functions is a classic mobile malware tactic. If an app that isn't on the Play Store promises something too good to be true, be wary as a rule..

GravityRAT

Originally designed for Windows and used against Indian forces, it made the leap to Android after 2018. Researchers found versions that added a spy module to apps like “Travel Mate”, renamed and reposted in public repositories.

Variants have been observed that point to WhatsApp data. The tactic of taking old, legitimate apps, injecting malicious code, and redistributing them is common due to its high deception rate..

How to recognize signs of spyware on your mobile phone

Spyware tries to go unnoticed, but it leaves traces. If you notice your phone is unusually slow, apps are closing, or the system is crashing, suspect hidden processes are consuming resources..

Check battery and data consumption. Excessive data usage, especially without Wi-Fi, may indicate background activity sending information out..

Look for apps or settings you don't remember changing: new home page, unknown (even hidden) apps, aggressive pop-ups, or ads that won't disappear. These changes often reveal adware or spyware coexisting in the system..

Overheating without intensive use is also a warning sign. If you're also having trouble accessing websites or apps with a password (fake screens, redirects, and strange requests), there might be malicious overlays capturing your credentials..

Other indicators: your antivirus stops working, you receive strange SMS messages or emails with codes or links, or your contacts receive messages that you did not send. Even unusual noises in calls (beeps, static) can be related to wiretaps or clandestine recordings..

Take note of unusual behaviors such as random restarts, shutdown freezes, or the camera/microphone activating for no reason. Although some signs are consistent with other types of malware, together they reinforce the suspicion of spyware..

If you fear a very specific threat like Pegasus, look for specialized guides. These Advanced tools require more in-depth analysis procedures to confirm or rule out its presence.

How to remove spyware from Android step by step

When in doubt, act without delay. The sooner you cut off communication By removing spyware from its servers and eliminating the intrusive app, you will expose less data.

Option 1: Manual cleaning with Safe Mode

Restart in Safe Mode to block third-party apps while you investigate. On most Android devices, hold down the power buttonTap Power off and hold again to see “Restart in safe mode”; confirm and wait for the prompt to appear in the lower left corner.

Open Settings and go to Apps. Use the menu (three dots) to show system processes/applicationsReview the list and look for suspicious or unknown packages.

Uninstall any apps you don't recognize. If it won't uninstall, it probably has a problem. device administrator privileges.

To revoke those permissions, go to Settings > Security (or Security and Privacy) > Advanced > Device administrators Device management apps. Locate the problematic app, uncheck its box or tap Disable, and return to Apps to uninstall it.

Also check your Downloads folder using the Files/My Files app. Remove installers or files that you don't remember downloading. and that may have been used to sneak in the stalkerware.

When you're finished, restart in normal mode and check if the phone is working normally again. If the symptoms persist, repeat the review and expands the scope to include other apps or services that raise doubts.

Option 2: Analysis with a reliable security solution

The quickest and most effective way is usually to use a reputable mobile security app. Download recognized solutions from the Play Store (for example, Avast, Avira, Bitdefender, Kaspersky or McAfee) and run a full scan.

Follow the instructions to quarantine or remove any detected threat. Avoid unfamiliar tools that promise miracles: many are, in reality, disguised malware.

Option 3: Update Android

Installing the latest system version can patch vulnerabilities and sometimes neutralize active infections. Go to Settings > Software update and tap Download and install to apply pending patches.

Option 4: Reset to factory settings

If nothing works, erase everything and start from scratch. In Settings > System or General management > Reset, choose Wipe all data (factory reset)Confirm with your PIN and wait for the restart.

When restoring, use a backup from before the infection to avoid reintroducing the problem. If you're unsure when it started, configure the mobile from scratch and install essential apps at your leisure.

Extra steps after cleaning

Change passwords for sensitive services (email, banking, networks), enable two-step verification, and clear your browser cache. A password manager reduces manual typing and helps mitigate keyloggers by autofilling credentials in encrypted environments. Additionally, it reviews how delete stored passwords if you want to remove local traces.

About stalkerware and your personal security

If you suspect stalkerware has been installed by someone close to you, prioritize your safety. Cleaning the device may alert the attacker. seek specialized support or contact the security forces before acting if there is a risk.

How to protect your Android device against spyware

Stay alert for unexpected messages. Do not open attachments or links from suspicious senders and verify the URLs before clicking, even if they seem trustworthy.

Change your passwords regularly and enable 2FA whenever possible. Activate 2FA And updating passwords are additional, highly effective barriers.

Browse HTTPS sites and avoid clicking on pop-up windows that promise impossible bargains. Malvertising remains a common route of infection when punctures are performed hastily..

Protect physical access to your mobile phone with a strong PIN and biometrics, and don't leave it unlocked. It limits who can touch it.because many cases of stalkerware require having the device in hand.

Keep Android and apps updated to their latest version. Security patches cover holes that attackers use to get in without you noticing.

Download only from the Play Store or official websites and check permissions. Avoid third-party stores and don't root your device unless absolutely necessarybecause it amplifies the risks.

Install a reliable mobile antivirus solution with real-time protection. In addition to detect and remove spywareIt blocks malicious downloads and warns you about dangerous websites.

Make regular backups and consider using a VPN on public Wi-FiThis minimizes losses if you need to reset and reduces exposure on shared networks.

Browser signals and recommended actions

If you notice strange redirects, persistent pop-ups, or your homepage and search engine changing on their own, adware may be involved. Check your extensions. remove the ones you don't recognize and reset the browser settings to regain control.

When Google detects malicious activity, it may close your session to protect you. Take this opportunity to do a Security review from your account and strengthen protection settings.

Spyware and other types of malware on Android

In addition to spyware, it is important to differentiate other families of malware. A worm replicates and spreads autonomously, a virus inserts itself into programs or files, and a Trojan horse disguises itself as a legitimate app that you activate yourself..

On mobile devices, malware can download malicious apps, open unsafe websites, send premium SMS messages, steal passwords and contacts, or encrypt data (ransomware). If severe symptoms appear, Turn off your phone, investigate, and take action. with the elimination plan you've seen. Check for warnings about Trojans and threats on Android to be updated.

Quick FAQ

Are all Android devices vulnerable? Yes. Any smartphone or tablet can be infectedAnd although watches, Smart TVs or IoT devices suffer fewer attacks, the risk is never zero.

How do I avoid it? Don't click on suspicious links or attachments, apply security patches, don't root your device, use free antivirus and limits app permissions. Activate 2FA and changing passwords strengthens the defense.

What should I do if my phone is slow, overheating, or showing ads that won't disappear? Try the checks in this guide, run a scan with a reputable solution, and if necessary, perform a factory reset. Remember only restore backups prior to the problems to avoid reintroducing the spyware.

If you're interested in learning more, look for security comparisons between iOS and Android, guides to removing "calendar viruses," or smartphone security tips. Train yourself in good practices It's your best long-term defense.

A well-protected mobile phone is the result of consistent habitsResponsible downloads, up-to-date updates, and well-configured security layers are key. With clear warning signs, readily available cleaning methods and antivirus software, and active preventative measures, you'll keep spyware and other threats at bay.