How to Find and Delete Stalkerware from Your Smartphone

Stalkerware is a type of spyware that lets someone secretly monitor your phone—reading your messages, tracking your location, recording calls, and more. This guide shows you how to detect and remove it from both Android and iPhone, plus how to secure your device afterward. You don’t need any technical skills, just about 30 minutes and your phone.

What You’ll Need

Your smartphone (Android or iPhone)
Access to your phone’s settings (passcode or biometric unlock)
A computer (optional, for a more thorough backup check)
Patience—some steps take a few minutes to complete

Step-by-Step

Back up your data. Before you delete anything, back up your contacts, photos, and files to a secure cloud service or your computer. This protects you if something goes wrong during removal.
Check for unusual apps. Open your app list (on Android: Settings > Apps; on iPhone: just swipe through your home screens). Look for apps you don’t remember installing. Stalkerware often hides under innocuous names like “System Update,” “Security Service,” or “Weather.” If you see anything suspicious, don’t tap it—just note its name.
Review app permissions. Go to Settings > Privacy (iPhone) or Settings > Apps > Special app access (Android). Look for apps that have permission to access your location, microphone, camera, or messages. If an app you don’t recognize has these permissions, that’s a red flag.
Check for a jailbreak or root. If your iPhone is jailbroken or your Android is rooted, it’s easier for spyware to hide. You can check with apps like “System Status” (iPhone) or “Root Checker” (Android), but if you didn’t jailbreak/root your phone yourself, assume it might be compromised.
Look for unusual data usage. Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Settings > Network & internet > Data usage (Android). Stalkerware constantly sends data, so an app with high background data usage is suspicious.
Check your battery usage. Go to Settings > Battery. Spyware often runs in the background, draining your battery faster than normal. If an app you don’t recognize shows high battery usage, investigate.
Use a detection tool. Install a reputable security app like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender (both have free versions). Run a full scan. These apps are specifically designed to catch stalkerware.
Delete the spyware. If you find a suspicious app, tap and hold it (Android) or press and hold it (iPhone) until the delete option appears. Remove it immediately. If you can’t delete it, it might be a system app—skip to the next step.
Factory reset (if needed). If you can’t find the spyware but suspect it’s there, or if you find an app that won’t delete, do a factory reset. On Android: Settings > System > Reset > Erase all data. On iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. This wipes everything, including hidden spyware.
Change your passwords. After removal, change your Apple ID or Google account password, and the passwords for your email, social media, and banking apps. Do this on a different device (like a computer) to be safe.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Turn on 2FA for your Apple ID or Google account. This adds an extra layer of security so the stalker can’t just log back in.
Update your phone. Install the latest operating system updates. They often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities spyware might exploit.

Common Mistakes

Only deleting the app you found. Stalkerware often comes in pairs—one app to collect data, another to send it. Delete all suspicious apps, not just one.
Skipping the factory reset. If you’re not 100% sure the spyware is gone, a factory reset is the only way to be certain. Don’t skip it just because it’s inconvenient.
Changing passwords on the same phone. If the spyware is still active, it can capture your new passwords. Always change passwords on a different device.
Ignoring physical access. Stalkerware is often installed when someone has physical access to your phone. If you suspect a partner or family member, keep your phone locked and with you at all times.
Not checking your iCloud/Google account. Spyware can also be installed remotely through your cloud account. Check for unfamiliar devices logged into your Apple ID or Google account.

Tips

Use a strong passcode (not a pattern or 4-digit PIN) and enable biometric lock (fingerprint or face ID).
Turn off “Install unknown apps” on Android (Settings > Apps > Special access). This prevents unauthorized app installations.
Keep your phone with you—don’t leave it unlocked or unattended.
Regularly review your app list and permissions, at least once a month.
Consider a privacy screen protector if you’re often in public—it prevents shoulder surfing.
If you’re in danger, contact a local domestic violence hotline for help and resources. They can guide you on how to stay safe while dealing with stalkerware.

Troubleshooting

I found an app but can’t delete it. Some spyware disguises itself as a system app. On Android, go to Settings > Apps, select the app, and tap “Disable” if “Uninstall” isn’t available. On iPhone, if it’s a profile, go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management and remove the profile.
The security scan found nothing, but I still suspect spyware. Run a scan with a different security app. Also check your phone’s settings for any “Device admin” apps (Android) or “Profiles” (iPhone) that you didn’t set up.
My phone is acting weird after deletion. If apps crash or the phone is slow, restart your phone. If issues persist, do a factory reset (back up first).
The stalker keeps reinstalling spyware. This means they still have access to your phone or your cloud account. Change your passwords immediately, enable 2FA, and consider a factory reset. If you’re in a dangerous situation, seek help from a professional or a support organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can stalkerware be installed without physical access to my phone?
A: Yes, it’s possible if someone has your iCloud or Google credentials. They can remotely install spyware or sync your data. That’s why changing passwords and enabling 2FA is crucial.

Q: Will a factory reset remove all spyware?
A: Yes, a factory reset wipes all apps and data, including most stalkerware. However, some extremely advanced spyware can survive a reset (rare, but possible). After resetting, don’t restore from a backup that might be infected—set up as a new phone.

Q: How do I know if my phone is jailbroken or rooted?
A: On iPhone, check for the Cydia app. On Android, look for the SuperSU or Magisk app. If you see these, your phone is jailbroken/rooted. If you didn’t do it yourself, it’s a security risk.

Q: Is it legal to install spyware on someone’s phone?
A: In most places, it’s illegal to install spyware on someone’s phone without their consent. It violates privacy laws and can be considered stalking. If you’re a victim, report it to the police.

Q: Can I recover deleted messages after removing spyware?
A: Yes, if you backed up your phone before removal, you can restore your data. But if you did a factory reset, you’ll need to restore from a backup made before the reset. If you didn’t back up, data may be lost.

Q: How often should I check for spyware?
A: If you have a high-risk situation (e.g., an abusive partner), check weekly. Otherwise, a monthly review of your apps and permissions is a good habit.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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