ASK CAPPIE THE COMPUTER CAT
Is Someone Spying on Me? Is there anyway to know if my smartphone got hacked or if someone is spying on me via my phone? George from SCG Dear George, You did not mention if you have an Android or iPhone. Regardless of which operating system your smartphone uses, here are some basic things to check: n Your phone is suddenly sluggish and decreases performance for no apparent reason. Unless you recently downloaded an app that is a memory hog, you could be infected with malware or spyware. n There is a sudden drop in battery life for no apparent reason. Unexpected battery drains could mean someone is tracking your device. n Your phone overheats when in your pocket or when idle. If so, a spying app could be why. n Your phone randomly turns itself off. Again, a possible infection. n Some apps are showing that you know you did not download. This could be malware which often downloads and install apps on your smartphone without approval or knowledge. n You see outgoing texts and calls but did not send them, or unread emails marked as read, or pop ups appearing on the home screen. These are also signs of malware or spyware. 48
View the digital version of “Ask Cappie” monthly column by going to www. grandinfo.com. Click on the More News>Grand Lifestyles Magazine> to choose the month you want to view. Special thanks to Jackie, for sending Cappie a lovely photo she took of her cat, Simba. If you believe you have been hacked or are being spied upon: n Delete all apps on your device that you do not recognize and only install apps from reputable developers. n Download a reputable mobile security app (check PC Magazine, Tom’s Guide, Tech Radar, etc. to see the latest ratings and how the app works) and run the app. n Spy apps require physical access to your device, so put a secure passcode on your phone so no one can access it to install a spy app. (Generally, spy apps are installed by someone close to you like a spouse, relative, or friend so choose a code that cannot be easily guessed). n Do not click on links in text messages, emails, or on social media sites. n Use secure, unique passwords and enable login notifications on
key accounts so you are aware of sign-ins from new computers or locations. Also enable two factor authentication so if your password is compromised, the hacker can’t get in without access to your phone. n Do not give real answers to security questions to reset your password that hackers could surmise from doing an internet search on you. In other words, lie but keep the information in a safe place to access it when needed. n Do not use public wi-fi, especially if it involves banking or purchasing items online. Do not use public USB charging stations in locations such as airports and hotels. n If all else fails, you can restore your phone to factory settings and reinstall your data…but backup before restoring.
Some basic tips Cappie suggests to not get hacked or spied upon in the first place: Do not download apps for your iPhone that are not available in the Apple Store or for the Android that are not in the Google Play Store. Do not jailbreak your iPhone, and if you have an Android, do not root your phone. These 2 terms essentially mean altering your phone operating system’s software and code to bypass the manufacturer’s software limitations so you can customize your device and download apps, themes, etc. from anywhere.
Grand Lifestyles | July 2021 | suncitygrand.com
