How to Tell if Someone Is Accessing Your iPhone Remotely

Gorilla updated on May 14, 2024 to iOS Questions and Answers

Recently, I noticed some unusual activities on my iPhone and suspected that someone might be accessing it remotely. Feeling concerned about my privacy and security, I started looking for ways to identify if this was indeed happening.

If you suspect that someone may be accessing your iPhone remotely without your permission, there are several signs you can look for to determine if this is happening:

  • Unexplained Data Usage: If you notice a significant increase in data usage on your iPhone, it could be a sign that someone is remotely accessing your device, especially if you are not using more data than usual.

  • Battery Draining Quickly: If your iPhone's battery is draining faster than usual, it could indicate that background processes are running on your device, including remote access activities.

  • Unusual Behavior: If you notice strange or unusual behavior on your iPhone, such as apps opening or closing on their own, text messages being sent or received without your knowledge or settings being changed without your permission, it could be a sign of remote access.

  • Unauthorized Calls or Messages: If you see outgoing calls or messages that you did not make or send, it could indicate that someone is using your device remotely.

  • Changes in Settings: If you notice changes in your iPhone settings, such as unknown devices paired with Bluetooth, unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks connected, or new accounts added, it could be a sign of unauthorized access.

  • Unexplained Pop-ups or Alerts: If you receive unexpected pop-ups, alerts, or notifications on your iPhone, especially ones requesting personal information or login credentials, it could be a phishing attempt by someone trying to access your device remotely.

If you suspect that someone is accessing your iPhone remotely, there are steps you can take to secure your device and protect your data:

  • Change your Apple ID password: Update your Apple ID password to prevent unauthorized access to your account and device.

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID to add an extra layer of security to your account.

  • Review Connected Devices: Check the list of connected devices in your Apple ID settings to ensure that there are no unknown devices linked to your account.

  • Update iOS: Make sure that your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS to patch any security vulnerabilities.

  • Scan for Malware: Use reputable antivirus or security apps to scan your iPhone for malware that may be allowing remote access.

To avoid data tampering or losing, it's suggested to backup your data from iPhone to Windows PC or Mac computer. EaseUS MobiMover is a third-party iOS data backup tool, which enables you to backup iPhone to computer with one click for free. Here you can download it and try it out!

Further Reading: Can Someone Unlock My iPhone in Lost Mode