BitsnBytes-Winter2024-2025

Bits & bytes Winter 2024-2025 12 Detecting Spyware There are several signs that can indicate the presence of spyware on phones. Unusual Battery Drain Spyware can run constantly in the background, leading to significantly faster battery depletion. Security Warnings If a user’s phone or antivirus flags unusual activities, take it seriously. Overheating A phone that becomes unusually hot, even when not in use, could be running spyware or other intensive background processes. Delayed Shutdown If a user’s phone takes longer than usual to shut down, it might be because spyware is running in the background. Increased Data Usage Spyware often sends data back to its controller. Unexplained spikes in data usage can be a red flag. Pop-ups and Ads Frequent pop-ups and ads that appear even when users are not browsing the web may be a sign of spyware. Strange Behavior Unexpected reboots, crashes, and slow performance can be signs of spyware. In addition, applications may also open and close on their own. Background Noise Unusual sounds and static during phone calls can sometimes suggest the microphones are being used for eavesdropping. Unfamiliar Apps Check for rogue applications that may have been installed. Unusual Text Messages Receipt of strange text messages with random characters, symbols and/or codes can be attempts by spyware to communicate with its controllers. 1 10 2 9 3 8 4 5 6 7 Spyware on Phones: Know its Impacts and Delete it (Continued from page 11) Continued on page 13