How to Detect and Remove Spyware Apps on Android

You’re using your phone for everything—photos, private chats, banking, shopping, even work accounts. While Android keeps improving its security, cybercriminals don’t rest. One of their favorite weapons? Spyware apps, which secretly infiltrate your device to steal information or even control it remotely.

At TecnetOne, we know how common these threats really are. That’s why we want to help you understand how spyware works, what warning signs to look out for, and what to do if you suspect your phone has been compromised.

What Is Spyware, Really?

Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to monitor your activity without your knowledge. Once installed, it can:

1. Read your WhatsApp or SMS messages

1. Access your photos and personal files

1. Steal passwords and banking credentials

1. Activate your mic or camera in the background

1. Track your real-time location

Variants include keyloggers that capture your keystrokes and stalkerware, used in harassment cases where someone with physical access installs the app to spy on you.

The biggest problem? It all happens silently, often without you realizing until sensitive information has already been stolen.

How Spyware Gets Into Your Phone

Spyware thrives on human error and social engineering. Here are the most common infection methods:

1. Phishing: A malicious SMS or email with a link that downloads spyware

1. Fake apps: Installed outside Google Play, or even from official stores, disguised as games or utilities

1. Physical access: Someone with access to your phone can install stalkerware in minutes

1. Malvertising: Ads hiding code that infects your phone when clicked

A recent Avast report showed spyware cases increased by 147% in just one year. Anyone can become a target.

Read more: LunaSpy: The Fake Antivirus Spying on Your Phone

Signs Your Android Device May Be Infected

Spyware tries to stay hidden, but it leaves clues. Watch for:

1. Unusual slowdowns and frequent freezing

1. Rapid battery drain from background activity

1. Unexpected spikes in mobile data usage

1. Constant overheating, even during light use

1. Unknown apps with excessive permissions

1. Strange configuration changes or pop-ups

If you notice several of these symptoms, take action immediately.

How to Remove Spyware Step by Step

Use Trusted Security Tools

The easiest way is with a reputable antivirus app like Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Avira, or Avast. These detect and remove spyware automatically.

Steps:

1. Download from the Google Play Store

1. Run a full device scan

1. Remove or quarantine any threats found

Avoid unknown "security" apps—they may be malware in disguise.

Manual Spyware Removal

If you prefer a hands-on approach:

1. Boot into Safe Mode: Prevents third-party apps from running. Hold the power button and select “Safe Mode.”

1. Uninstall suspicious apps: Go to Settings > Apps and remove anything unfamiliar.

1. Revoke admin rights: Navigate to Settings > Security > Device Admin Apps, disable suspicious access, and delete the app.

Restart your device normally to check if the issue is resolved.

Update Your Operating System

Updates fix vulnerabilities that spyware exploits. Go to Settings > Software Update and ensure you’re on the latest Android version.

Factory Reset as a Last Resort

If nothing works, a factory reset wipes your device completely. You’ll lose all data, so back up essential files—but don’t restore anything suspicious.

Path: Settings > General Management > Reset > Factory Data Reset

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How to Stay Protected in the Future

Removing spyware is great—but prevention is key. Here are best practices:

1. Only install apps from Google Play and check reviews and permissions

1. Enable Google Play Protect to scan apps in the background

1. Don’t click on suspicious links in texts, emails, or social media

1. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication

1. Regularly review app permissions

1. Install security updates as soon as they’re available

At TecnetOne, we recommend going further with enterprise-grade protection—including Acronis Cyber Protect, which combines backup, malware detection, ransomware defense, and spyware protection in a single solution.

Conclusion: Your Privacy Depends on Your Vigilance

Spyware on Android is real—and it can compromise your digital life in minutes. Early detection helps, but building a security-first mindset is even more crucial.

At TecnetOne, we help businesses strengthen their defenses with incident response, monitoring, and advanced cybersecurity solutions. Because privacy isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity in a world where cybercriminals are constantly evolving.