Is Your Phone Spying? Unlocked 403 on Mobile Spyware

Your smartphone can be turned into a silent surveillance device. In this Unlocked 403 episode, host Becks and ESET malware researcher Lukas Stefanko unpack the rise of digital espionage, how modern spyware hides in plain sight, and what you can do to protect your privacy.

What this episode covers:

• How spying moved from cloak-and-dagger tactics to phone-based surveillance
• The ways spyware poses as everyday apps and can sometimes compromise devices without any action from you
• BadBazaar: a spyware tool uncovered by ESET, and why threats like it are so dangerous
• Practical, easy-to-follow steps to spot and remove spyware from your phone

Who’s on the mic:

• Host: Becks
• Guest: Lukas Stefanko, malware researcher at ESET and returning Unlocked 403 guest

Quick safety tips you’ll hear about:

• Install apps only from trusted stores; avoid sideloading
• Audit app permissions and remove those that overreach (e.g., SMS, accessibility, device admin)
• Watch for red flags: sudden battery drain, data spikes, overheating, or unknown admin apps
• Keep your OS and apps updated to close known security holes
• Use a reputable mobile security solution and run regular scans
• If you suspect compromise: back up essentials, remove suspicious apps, and consider a factory reset

Also worth a watch: the earlier Unlocked 403 episode exploring Android threats.

Watch/listen and learn how to keep spyware off your device.

Source: WeLiveSecurity