Clues that someone is reading or receiving a copy of your text messages – AI Tech News

Almost any connected device you own can be used to spy on you, and it’s not limited to smart speakers and webcams. Many smart TVs have cameras that you don’t even know exist.

You probably know a few people who prefer texting to calls. It’s a convenient and familiar way to keep in touch and exchange information. If you prefer SMS to voice calls, you are not alone!

But these texts should be kept between the people who write them, right? This is not always the case, as there are many ways to intercept your messages. Here’s how to know you’re being spied on.

iPhone owners should turn to their families

Apple iMessage texts can be intercepted by a nearby person using a connected device. There are several ways to do this.

First, there is the transfer of messages. You can use this feature to automatically forward messages to another device. The thing is, someone else can do the same thing. Here’s how to check if it’s enabled:

• Go to Go to Settings > Messages > SMS forwarding.
• If you don’t see Text Message Forwarding, go to Settings > Messaging. To extinguish iMessagethen turn it back on. Tap Send & Receive > Use your Apple ID for iMessage.
• See unknown devices? Turn them off.

You can also use a code to see if your calls and texts are forwarded:

• Open the Phone app and press the Keyboard.
• Dial *#21# and hit it green call button.
• You should get an information screen

Here you will see details about your call, SMS and even fax activity. If they are listed as disabled, all is well. Faucet To reject when you have finished watching the data to return to the normal screen.

If you’re having trouble with your phone settings, someone probably broke into your phone, your iCloud account, or both. Immediately change your passwords and PINs.

Spyware can be used by anyone, not just hackers

Developers market their spyware as a way to protect your children from predators and ensure that bad actors don’t scam your loved ones. Sure, that makes sense, but nothing stops someone with bad intentions from using this software to keep tabs on you.

A popular app, mSpy, offers the ability to monitor text messages, calls, and social media interactions. The app can be installed remotely on an iPhone if you have the correct iCloud credentials. For Android phones, someone will need to install it directly on the phone.

Once done, your messages and more can be intercepted. Someone can access your old messages through iCloud and Android backup apps like Dr. Fone, which can be installed on a PC. Once they are there, they can see all of your past messages.

mSpy is certainly not the only application of this type. The people behind these apps are not shy about naming their apps. Other apps to watch include SpyBubble, XNSPY, Cocospy, Spyera, EyeZy, uMobix, and Hoverwatch. This list is not exhaustive, but for the most part the clues are in the names themselves.

Change your PINs and passwords if you suspect someone is spying on you. Tap or click here for 10 tips for securing your devices with strong passwords.

Check your phone now

Start by checking your apps. Are there any unknown ones that you don’t remember installing? Get rid of them! It is a good practice to practice regularly.

Delete apps on your iPhone

• Touch and hold the app icon on your iPhone.
• Faucet Delete app > Delete app then press Remove.

Delete apps on your Android phone

• Open the Google Play Store application.
• At the top right, tap the Profile icon.
• Faucet Manage apps and devices > Manage.
• Tap the name of the app you want to remove.
• Faucet Uninstall.

There are signs to tell if your phone is infected with spyware, malware, or viruses:

• Spyware can consume a lot of resources which makes your phone heat up.
• Is your phone battery draining faster than usual? It may be infected with spyware.
• Spyware constantly sends data from your phone to another device, causing large spikes in data usage.
• Spyware can slow down your connection speed by redirecting or forwarding your messages elsewhere.
• Watch out for strange occurrences like your phone turning itself off or constantly losing connection during calls.