A smartphone can be tracked not only with spyware or sophisticated hacking. In many cases, all it takes is access to a shared Google or Apple account, an old device that is still linked to your account, or location services left switched on.
Research shows that digital surveillance in relationships is becoming increasingly common, especially after a break-up or divorce. It is estimated that up to 40% of divorces involve some form of phone monitoring – from tracking someone’s whereabouts to reading messages or viewing online activity. Surveys also indicate that around 59% of people admit to checking what their partner is doing online.
Specialists report a sharp rise in cases of so-called ‘spousal spying’: while in 2022 it appeared in roughly one in five divorce cases, in 2023 it was already present in around two out of five. In many instances this does not involve dedicated spyware, but rather the misuse of entirely legitimate services – shared cloud accounts, family safety settings and location-sharing services.
Signs your phone may be being tracked
Not every odd behaviour of a smartphone means you are under surveillance, but certain signals may indicate that someone has access to your information.
1. Someone knows where you have been
A worrying sign is when someone regularly knows details of your journeys and plans, even though you have not told them. For example, the person mentions places you have not discussed, restaurants or locations you have only searched for online, or they turn up somewhere they had no obvious reason to expect to see you. This can happen if that person still has access to location-sharing services or to your account with its location history.
2. Unknown or old devices on your account
Another common sign is old phones, tablets or laptops that are still linked to your Google or Apple account. Through these, another person may be able to see synchronised data: browser history, saved passwords, location history, recent search queries and device activity.
3. Location sharing is enabled
Services such as Google Maps, Apple Find My or family safety apps are often used within families and couples. After a break-up or a change in circumstances, they can simply be forgotten about. If location sharing remains active, another person can see in real time where your phone is.
4. Rapid battery drain and increased data usage
Constant location tracking or apps running in the background can sometimes cause unusually fast battery drain, higher mobile data usage or the phone heating up even when idle. Such symptoms may indicate that apps are constantly accessing location services.
5. Unknown apps and changes in settings
In some cases, hidden apps are used for surveillance, tracking messages, calls or location. Pay attention to unfamiliar apps you did not install, location services suddenly being switched on, or app permissions changing without your knowledge. In such a situation, it is sensible to carefully review the list of installed apps and your security settings.
How to strengthen your privacy protection
If you suspect that someone may have access to your account or your location, it is worth taking a few security steps.
1. Change your passwords immediately
Update the passwords for your Google accounts, Apple ID, email and social media. Use strong, unique combinations, ideally generated by a secure password generator.
2. Check all connected devices
In your account settings, review the list of devices that have access to your profile and remove any you do not recognise or no longer use. This will help stop unauthorised viewing of synchronised data.
3. Turn off location sharing
Check the settings in Google Maps, Apple Find My and family tracking apps. If necessary, disable location-sharing features or restrict the circle of people who can see your whereabouts.
4. Be cautious with suspicious messages
Unauthorised access to accounts often starts with phishing emails or messages designed to trick you into revealing your login and password. Do not click on dubious links and do not enter your details on unfamiliar websites. Suspicious emails and links should be double-checked using dedicated verification services.
5. Scan your phone for spyware
If you suspect that spyware may have been installed on your device, you should:
- review the list of installed apps and remove any you do not recognise;
- check app permissions, especially access to location, microphone and messages;
- update the operating system and security settings;
- run a scan with a reputable mobile antivirus.
Experts emphasise that in many cases the cause of surveillance is not hidden spyware, but old devices left on the account, active shared services or compromised login details. Spending a few minutes checking your security settings, connected devices and location access permissions can significantly improve your level of digital privacy.