How to Tell If Your Mobile Has Been Hacked: Signs, Fixes & Business Mobile Security Quick answer
Signs your phone may have been hacked include unusual apps, sudden battery drain, overheating, pop-ups, increased data usage, strange messages, unexpected charges, login alerts and apps asking for permissions they do not need.
If you think your phone has been hacked:
Disconnect from Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Do not click pop-ups or warning messages.
Remove suspicious apps.
Update your phone and apps.
Change important passwords from a different trusted device.
Enable multi-factor authentication.
Check your bank, email and mobile account activity.
Report suspicious texts by forwarding them to 7726.
Factory reset the phone if you cannot remove the issue.
Contact your mobile provider if your SIM, number or account may be compromised.
If this is a work phone, staff mobile or business SIM, you should also tell your employer, IT provider or mobile account manager quickly because a hacked business phone can expose:
business emails
customer messages
banking apps
payment apps
Microsoft 365
WhatsApp Business
CRM access
cloud files
staff contacts
supplier accounts
two-factor authentication codes
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Contents
Signs Your Phone Has Been Hacked
Steps to Secure Your Device
Preventive Measures
Apps To Protect Your Phone From Hackers
How do we work?
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Authored by: Ally Cox (Business Technology & B2B Services Specialist 10+ Years’ Experience)
Reviewed by: James Ward (Telecoms Specialist, 12+ Years Experience)
Last Updated: August 2026
Key Takeaways
Unusual apps, data usage, or battery drain can signal a hacked phone.
Unexpected charges or messages are common signs of malware.
Immediate action limits damage, including disconnecting from the internet.
Updating software and removing suspicious apps resolves many attacks.
Preventive habits dramatically reduce risk, especially app and Wi-Fi hygiene.
Fast check – do you think you’ve been hacked? Use this quick checklist.
Warning sign What it could mean
Apps you do not recognise
Malware, stalkerware or unwanted software
Uninstall suspicious apps and check app permissions
Battery draining quickly
Background activity or malicious app
Check battery usage by app
Phone overheating
Heavy background activity
Restart, update and check running apps
Data usage spike
Apps sending data in background
Check mobile data usage by app
Pop-ups or fake virus warnings
Adware, scam site or malicious app
Do not click; close browser tabs
Strange messages sent from your number
Account or messaging app compromise
Change passwords and check linked devices
Unexpected charges
Premium texts, subscriptions or SIM misuse
Check bill and contact provider
Login alerts
Account compromise
Change password from a trusted device
Camera or microphone indicators
App using permissions unexpectedly
Phone very slow or freezing
Malware, storage issues or old software
Update, remove suspicious apps and scan
Calls dropping or SIM stops working
Possible SIM swap or account issue
Contact mobile provider immediately
What NOT to do:
Don’t ignore strange behaviour
Don’t install random “cleaner” apps
Don’t click pop-ups claiming your phone is infected
Signs Your Phone Has Been Hacked
What’s happening.. Sign Explanation
Unusual Activity
Unexpected Apps
Apps you didn’t download appear on your phone.
Malware can install apps without your knowledge.
Unusual Activity
Increased Data Usage
Spikes in data usage can indicate malware sending data in the background.
Unusual Activity
Battery Drain
Faster than usual battery drain could be caused by malware running in the background.
Performance Issues
Slow Performance
A hacked phone usually becomes sluggish due to malware consuming resources.
Performance Issues
Crashes and Freezes
Frequent crashes or freezes can indicate malware interfering with your phone’s operations.
Unusual Charges and Messages
Unexplained Charges
Check your phone bill for unexpected charges from premium-rate texts or calls initiated by malware.
Unusual Charges and Messages
Strange Messages
Your contacts may receive messages you didn’t send, or you may find unusual messages in your sent folder.
Security Warnings
Pop-Ups and Ads
An increase in pop-ups or ads is usually a telltale sign of adware or malware infection.
Security Warnings
Antivirus Warnings
If your antivirus app detects suspicious activity, take it seriously and investigate further.
What to do immediately if your phone may be hacked
1. Disconnect from the internet
Turn off:
Wi-Fi
mobile data
Bluetooth if you are unsure what is connected
hotspot sharing
2. Do not click pop-ups or fake warning messages
Do not click messages that say things like:
“Your phone is infected”
“Tap here to clean your device”
“Your banking app is blocked”
“Install this security app now”
“Your Apple ID has expired”
“Your parcel is held”
“Your business account is suspended”
3. Check for suspicious apps Look for apps you do not recognise.
On Android, check:
Settings
Apps
See all apps
Sort by recently installed or recently used
On iPhone, check:
App Library
Settings
General
iPhone Storage
recently installed or unfamiliar apps
Delete anything suspicious, and also check whether any app has unusual permissions.
4. Update your phone
Install the latest operating system update and check:
iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update
Android: Settings > System > Software update
Also update important apps from the official app store.
5. Change passwords from a different trusted device
If your phone may be compromised, do not change passwords from that phone first, make sure you use a trusted laptop, tablet or another clean device.
Prioritise:
email
Apple Account or Google Account
banking
mobile provider account
Microsoft 365
Google Workspace
WhatsApp
social media
cloud storage
business apps
password manager
accounting software
Use unique passwords and turn on multi-factor authentication.
6. Check account login activity
Check recent activity on:
Apple Account
Google Account
email account
Microsoft account
social media
banking apps
WhatsApp linked devices
mobile provider account
cloud storage
business apps
7. Report suspicious texts
In the UK, many phone providers let customers report suspicious texts for free by forwarding them to 7726 .
8. Contact your mobile provider if your number or SIM may be affected
Contact your provider urgently if:
your SIM stops working
you lose signal unexpectedly
you receive messages about a SIM swap
calls or texts are being redirected
your bill has strange charges
your provider account password has changed
your phone number is being used for account logins
Ask them to check:
SIM swap activity
call forwarding
premium text charges
account login history
unknown devices or SIMs
spending caps
account security settings
9. Back up important data carefully
Before a reset, back up:
contacts
photos
work files
important messages
authenticator recovery codes
business documents
Do not back up suspicious apps or unknown configuration profiles if you can avoid it.
10. Factory reset if the problem continues
A factory reset can remove most malicious apps and settings, but it also removes your data from the device.
After resetting:
install updates first
restore only trusted data
reinstall apps from official app stores
use new passwords
enable MFA
review account access
avoid restoring suspicious apps
iPhone hacked: what to check iPhones can be targeted through phishing, account compromise, malicious profiles, stolen passcodes, unsafe links or compromised Apple Account access.
Check:
Apple Account password
devices signed into your Apple Account
Face ID or Touch ID settings
unknown configuration profiles
app permissions
location sharing
Messages and FaceTime settings
iCloud sharing
payment methods
calendar subscriptions
unknown VPN settings
Apple provides Safety Check on iPhone with iOS 16 or later, which can help users review sharing, restrict Messages and FaceTime to the iPhone, reset privacy permissions, change passcodes and review Apple Account security.
Check:
Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check
You should also enable Stolen Device Protection where available.
Android phone hacked: what to check Android phones can be targeted through malicious apps, unsafe downloads, phishing, fake updates, browser pop-ups, permissions abuse or compromised Google Account access.
Check:
installed apps
app permissions
device admin apps
accessibility permissions
unknown app installs
Google Play Protect
VPN settings
battery usage
data usage
Google Account devices
linked payment methods
SMS permissions
notification access
Preventive Measures
Be Cautious with App Installations
Only download apps from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure, consider using a VPN if you need to connect to public Wi-Fi.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enable 2FA on all your accounts for an extra layer of security, which requires a second form of verification in addition to your password.
Regularly Update Your Apps
Keep your apps and operating system up to date to protect against the latest security threats.
Use Strong Passwords
Use a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
Monitor Your Phone’s Activity
Regularly check your phone’s data usage, battery performance, and installed apps to quickly identify any unusual activity.
Apps To Protect Your Phone From Hackers
User type What to consider
Personal iPhone user
Built-in iOS security, Safety Check, app permissions, updates and strong Apple Account security
Personal Android user
Google Play Protect, official app store only, updates and reputable mobile security app
Sole trader
Password manager, MFA, mobile security, secure backup and business SIM controls
Small business
Business mobile plans, endpoint security, MDM, spending caps and staff guidance
Multi-site business
MDM, managed security, business mobile fleet management and incident process
Higher-risk business
MDM , endpoint detection, conditional access, mobile threat defence and IT support
Signs your phone may have spyware or stalkerware Some phone compromise is not random malware. It can be monitoring software installed by someone with access to the device.
Warning signs can include:
someone seems to know private information
location sharing you do not recognise
battery drain after someone had physical access
unknown profiles or device management settings
microphone or camera access you do not expect
unusual permissions
apps hidden under generic names
iCloud, Google or family sharing you did not set up
messages marked as read unexpectedly
Business mobile security checklist
If staff use mobiles for work, every business should consider:
Security control Why it matters
Business mobile contracts
Central control over numbers, usage and support
Spending caps
Reduces damage from premium-rate misuse
SIM controls
Helps manage lost, stolen or compromised SIMs
Mobile Device Management
Allows updates, app control and remote wipe
MFA
Protects cloud and email accounts
Endpoint security
Protects business devices
App control
Limits risky or unapproved apps
Remote wipe
Removes business data from lost or compromised devices
Device encryption
Protects data if the phone is stolen
Secure backup
Helps recover data safely
Staff training
Helps users spot phishing texts and fake links
Reporting process
Ensures incidents are escalated quickly
Should you replace the phone? You may not need to replace the phone if:
the issue was a scam text
you clicked a link but entered no details
you removed a suspicious app
updates installed successfully
account passwords were changed
no unusual account access is found
Consider replacing or professionally checking the device if:
it is no longer supported with security updates
unknown profiles keep returning
it was jailbroken or rooted
the same issue returns after factory reset
it is a business-critical device
banking or work data may have been exposed
the device was physically accessed by someone you do not trust
your IT provider recommends replacement
Our Thoughts While it can be a scary encounter, following our steps for detecting and responding to a hacked phone quickly is crucial to minimise damage and secure your personal information. By recognising the signs of a hack and following the steps outlined in our guide, you can protect your device and prevent future attacks.So take a deep breath, stay vigilant and always be proactive in maintaining your phone’s security to enjoy a safe mobile experience.
Business mobile features worth comparing
Feature
Business SIM management
Easier control over staff numbers and plans
Spending caps
Roaming controls
Helps manage overseas usage
Lost/stolen SIM support
Faster response if a device is compromised
Account-level support
Better than consumer-only support
Device plans
Useful if staff need secure work phones
MDM compatibility
Helps secure and manage staff devices
Data allowances
Important for field teams and remote workers
Shared data
Useful for teams with mixed usage
5G coverage
Important for mobile-first teams
Security add-ons
Helps with threat protection and device management
Contract flexibility
Useful for seasonal or growing teams
Best next step by situation
Situation Best next step
You clicked a suspicious text but entered no details
Close browser, delete message, report to 7726, monitor accounts
You entered a password
Change that password from another device and enable MFA
You entered banking details
Contact your bank immediately
You see unknown apps
Remove them, update phone and check permissions
Your SIM stopped working
Contact your mobile provider urgently
Strange messages were sent
Change messaging and cloud account passwords
Work email is on the phone
Tell your employer or IT provider
It is a staff business mobile
Ask provider or IT to suspend, wipe or replace if needed
Problems continue
Back up trusted data and factory reset
Phone no longer gets updates
Replace the device if it is used for important accounts
Our Final verdict A hacked phone can be a personal inconvenience, but it can also become a serious business risk if the device is used for email, banking, customer messages, staff systems or two-factor authentication.
For most people, the right first steps are:
disconnect
avoid pop-ups
update the phone
remove suspicious apps
change passwords from another trusted device
enable MFA
report suspicious texts
check account activity
factory reset if needed
FAQs How can I tell if my phone has been hacked?
Common signs include unusual apps, data spikes, battery drain, overheating, pop-ups, slow performance, unexpected charges, strange messages and login alerts.
What should I do first if my phone is hacked?
Disconnect from Wi-Fi and mobile data, avoid clicking pop-ups, remove suspicious apps, update the device and change important passwords from another trusted device.
Can hackers access my bank details through my phone?
Yes, if they gain access to your device, messages, banking app, email or passwords. Contact your bank immediately if you entered banking details or see suspicious transactions.
Can iPhones be hacked?
Yes. iPhones can be targeted through phishing, stolen passcodes, compromised Apple Accounts, malicious profiles, unsafe links or account sharing issues.
Can Android phones be hacked?
Yes. Android phones can be affected by malicious apps, unsafe downloads, phishing, fake updates, browser pop-ups and compromised Google Accounts.
Will a factory reset remove hackers from my phone?
A factory reset removes most malicious apps and settings, but you should update the phone, change passwords and avoid restoring suspicious apps afterwards.
Should I change my passwords if my phone is hacked?
Yes. Change important passwords from a trusted device, especially email, Apple Account, Google Account, banking, Microsoft 365, social media and mobile provider accounts.
Should I contact my mobile provider?
Yes, if your SIM stops working, your bill has strange charges, your phone number is being misused, or you suspect a SIM swap or account takeover.
Can hackers use my phone number?
Yes. If your number or SIM is compromised, attackers may try to receive verification codes, reset passwords or send messages from your number.
What is a SIM swap?
A SIM swap is when someone takes control of your mobile number by moving it to another SIM or device. Contact your provider urgently if your SIM suddenly stops working.
What does 7726 do?
In the UK, many mobile providers let customers report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding them to 7726.
Do antivirus apps work on phones?
Reputable mobile security apps can help, especially on Android, but they are not a complete solution. Updates, official app stores, MFA, password security and safe behaviour are still important.
Should businesses use mobile device management?
Businesses with staff phones, business SIMs or work apps should consider MDM. The NCSC notes that MDM can help with device updates, installed app monitoring and management.
What should I do if a work phone is hacked?
Report it to your employer, IT provider or mobile account manager. They may need to reset passwords, revoke sessions, wipe the device, suspend the SIM and check business systems.
How can I prevent my phone being hacked again?
Use official app stores, keep the phone updated, enable MFA, use strong passwords, avoid suspicious links, review app permissions and report scam texts.
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Hi, I’m Ally Cox , a senior copywriter and blogger at CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, the UK’s trusted platform for comparing business services.over a decade of experience in the B2B sector, I specialise in simplifying complex topics like leased lines, VoIP, business energy, HR and payroll solutions, accounting software, and EPOS systems .HR, copywriting, and business operations- from clocking-in systems to card machines and office technology .informed, confident decisions when choosing products and services that improve efficiency and save money.
