How to tell if someone is spying on my iPhone and how to eradicate spyware step by step

¿How can I tell if someone is spying on my iPhone and remove all the spyware? Your iPhone holds a huge part of your life: photos, conversations, locations, passwords, and financial data. That's why, when you suspect spying, it's best to act quickly and thoughtfully. This guide explains how to detect reliable signs, confirm clues, and remove spyware from your iPhone step by step.as well as strengthening security so that it does not happen again.

Before we get into the details, keep in mind a key point: iOS is very robust and spying isn't the most common thing, but it does happen. Some spyware programs can steal your location, read messages, record audio, activate your camera, or exfiltrate data to remote servers.There are even state-level campaigns (like Pegasus) that exploit zero-day vulnerabilities. With good practices and the right steps, you can nip virtually any intrusion in the bud.

Clear signs that someone might be spying on your iPhone

Spyware tries to go unnoticed, but it leaves traces. If you detect several subtle signs at once, it increases the likelihood that spyware is active.Don't be alarmed by an isolated symptom: look for patterns.

Recurring overheating When your iPhone isn't performing demanding tasks, it can indicate hidden processes. It's normal for your phone to get warm occasionally, but if it happens frequently and for no apparent reason, that's a red flag.

La battery that runs out much faster What's unusual also indicates background activity. Spy apps that capture audio, GPS, or keystrokes constantly drain the battery.

Observe strange spikes in mobile data usageSpyware usually uploads the collected information to external servers; if your data usage spikes without explanation, be suspicious.

Notice strange SMS messages, with symbols or cryptic textsThese could be spyware control commands. Similarly, persistent notifications or pop-ups and browser redirects point to adware paired with spyware.

Search unknown applications or that you don't remember installing. On jailbroken phones this is more serious, but even without jailbreaking, parental control tools used for spying purposes can be slipped in.

El low performanceCrashes, random restarts, or spontaneous reactivation of the screen when locked may indicate hidden tasks or conflicts caused by malware.

During calls, pay attention to strange noises, echoes, or interference Persistent. Current connections filter out a lot of noise; if it happens repeatedly, investigate.

Other signs to watch out for: screen that does not respond smoothlyStrange autocorrect or screen capture issues are possible side effects of keyloggers or recording functions.

How to confirm your suspicion: useful checks on iOS

With signs in hand, it's time to learn to how to tell if it's been hacked. These checks do not require advanced tools and can uncover most intrusions..

Start by taking inventory: Review the installed apps and their permissions.In Settings > Privacy and security, check access to CameraMicrophone, Contacts, Photos, Calendars, or Movement. If an app requests more than is reasonable for its function, that's a bad sign.

Then audits Location ServicesSettings > Privacy and security > Location services. Disable access that doesn't make sense or remove it if you don't use it.

Go to the App Store > Profile > Purchased To review your download history (including deleted downloads). If you find something you don't remember, investigate and delete it.

Very important: configuration and management profilesIn Settings > General > VPN and Device Management (or Profiles and Device Management), delete any profiles you cannot identify with certainty. This allows for deep configuration changes, routing traffic through third-party VPNs, or installing certificates capable of intercepting communications..

Control Battery (Settings > Battery) and Mobile data (Settings > Mobile data). Here you'll see which apps are using the most power and data; reset statistics periodically to detect recent spikes.

If you want to fine-tune things further, monitors the network Use another app or device (e.g., home network analysis tools) to detect suspicious connections or extra devices on your Wi-Fi. It's not essential, but it helps to piece together clues.

In the calls section, you can check for any unusual call forwarding or redirection. USSD codes (They don't work on all networks): Dial *#21# to view active call forwarding y *#62* for redirectsIf something doesn't look right, reset them with 002 ## # or disable them from Settings.

Finally, look for signs of jailbreak (Apps like Cydia or installers not available on the App Store). If you detect traces of jailbreaking and you didn't do it yourself, it's urgent to update iOS and perform a thorough cleanup.

How to remove spyware from your iPhone step by step

Cleaning can usually be resolved with software measures and some discipline. Start with the least invasive and only increase the level if the signs persist..

1) Remove suspicious apps

Locate the icon, press and hold, and tap Delete app To uninstall. In current iOS, you can also do it from Settings > General > iPhone Storage and remove it from there. Delete without hesitation any app you don't recognize or that requests excessive permissions..

2) Delete malicious profiles and certificates

In Settings > General > VPN and device management (or Profiles and Device Management), removes unknown profiles. This eliminates forced VPNs, proxies, certificates, or policies that might be diverting your traffic..

3) Update iOS to the latest version

Visit Settings > General > Software update and apply patches. Many intrusions exploit vulnerabilities already fixed by Apple. Updating iOS closes doors and, on jailbroken phones, reverses them..

4) Clear Safari and web data

Open Safari, tap the book icon > History, and tap DeleteChoose the period to delete. Deleting cookies, cache, and site data shortens persistence associated with redirects or aggressive scripts.

5) Use Security Check and restrict access

In Settings > Privacy and security > Security checkReview which people, apps, and devices have access to your data and revoke what you don't need. If you have suffered digital abuse or believe you are being monitored, the "Emergency Reset" feature abruptly cuts off sharing and permissions..

6) Optional: Activate Lock Mode

For advanced threats (e.g., Pegasus-type campaigns), go to Settings > Privacy and security > Lock modeIt limits functions and attack surfaces at the expense of usability. It's not for everyone, but it maximizes protection..

7) Last resort: Reset your iPhone

If the issues persist, tap "Clean Slate." Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Delete content and settings. Make a backup firstAnd when you restore, try using a copy prior to infection To avoid reintroducing the problem, if you doubt all your backups, set up your iPhone as a new device and manually recover your data (Photos in iCloud, Notes, etc.).

Extra tip: change all your passwords (Apple ID, email, social media, banking) from a different trusted device. Enable 2FA on all critical accounts before signing back into your iPhone.

What is spyware and why is it so dangerous?

Spyware is monitoring software that hides itself to register and send personal dataLocation, keystrokes, calls, messages, app usage, photos, audio, and much more. On iOS, it often arrives as a disguised app (including misused parental controls), configuration profiles, exploitation of iMessage or Safari vulnerabilities, or access to iCloud using your credentials.

Cases like Pegasus They demonstrated "clickless" intrusion and remote surveillance capabilities against specific targets, even on fully updated iPhones. Apple patches quickly, but Attackers are looking for new vulnerabilitiesEven so, for most users, the most likely vectors remain leaked passwords, physical installation of control apps, or profiles of dubious origin.

How to protect your iPhone so it doesn't happen again

A little digital hygiene prevents most unpleasantness. Follow these guidelines and you will drastically reduce the risk..

Download only from the App Store And be wary of profiles that claim you "need" them to install things. iOS checks apps; shortcuts to bypass controls often come at a high price.

Keep iOS always up to dateNew versions include critical patches. Enable automatic updates and regularly check Settings > General > Software Update.

Usa unique and strong passwords (better with a manager) and activate the two-factor authentication (2FA) For Apple ID and primary accounts. With 2FA, even if your password is stolen, they can't get in.

Avoid jailbreaking: remove security layers It opens the door to uncontrolled apps and repositories, increases the risk of spyware, and voids warranties.

Be careful with the suspicious links In email, SMS, or social media. If you're not expecting an attachment, don't open it. Check through another channel first.

Protect your Wi-Fi Home Wi-Fi (WPA2/WPA3, strong password, updated router firmware). Outside the home, if you use public Wi-Fi, consider a reliable VPN to encrypt traffic and prevent eavesdropping.

Check out app permissions and sharing (Photos, Calendars, Health, Location) frequently. If an app doesn't need something to function, deny access.

Activate physical measures: Face ID or Touch IDUse a robust passcode and never leave your iPhone unlocked unattended. Physical access makes it easy to install spyware or profiles in seconds.

Performs regular backups (iCloud or Finder). If something goes wrong, going back is much easier and safer.

Special cases and common questions

Is it possible to install spyware remotely? Yes, through exploits (less common) or scams (phishing, fake profiles, disguised apps). With common sense and an updated iOS version, you greatly reduce the risk.

Does a factory reset remove spyware? In practice, yes, for almost all cases. The trick is not to restore a corrupted copyIf you restore, use a version from before the infection; if in doubt, set it up as new.

Can they "hack" the camera or the microphone? If the iPhone is compromised, it's possible to activate the camera or microphone. iOS displays indicators (orange/green dot), but If you suspect anything, revoke permissions, update, and clean up..

Do I need antivirus on my iPhone? iOS limits what "antivirus" apps can do, but Some security tools add value (vulnerability alerts, Wi-Fi analysis, anti-phishing protection, password management, or VPN). These are not a substitute for updates or good judgment.

Do iPhones get viruses? Not the classic "viruses", but Yes, other threats exist. (spyware, adware, malicious profiles, phishing, exploits). Protection consists of layers: updated software, properly configured permissions, and safe habits.

Can they spy on me with my phone "off"? They can simulate a shutdown if the device is compromised, but this requires having infected it beforehand. Also, in airplane mode, if you leave Bluetooth enabledThe iPhone still participates in the "Find My" network. It's not content spying, but it can provide location clues.

I've detected unusual call forwarding.Use *#21# to view them and ##002# to restoreOr manage call forwarding in Settings. If it reactivates without your intervention, strengthen your carrier account security and change your passwords.

Last tipIf after all of the above you still have doubts, Contact Apple SupportThey can guide you through additional checks and help you perform a clean reinstall.

With signs identified, checks made and measures applied, most cases are resolved. Update, review permissions and profiles, use 2FA, and manage backups properly That's what makes the difference; with these routines, it will be very difficult for anyone to ever mess with your iPhone again. For more information, we've included the official support Apple in case of theft and other situations.