I got a strange message today, thought it was just some troll at first. But then they started mentioning info I’d only shared through messages. It’s not from anyone I told because their area code is from another state. They even have a screenshot of a photo I sent my friends on Instagram.
If I deleted my current Apple ID, would that stop this? Or do I need to get a new phone number or even a new phone altogether?
They’re saying they can see who I’m messaging, even mentioned names of my contacts. They also told me when I was active on Twitter, which makes me think it’s spyware for sure.
Arin said:
They’re saying they can see who I’m messaging, even mentioned names of my contacts. They also told me when I was active on Twitter, which makes me think it’s spyware for sure.
Yeah, first step is to change your Apple ID password. If anyone else can access your messages, it could mean your account isn’t secure.
Phones nowadays have this app sync “feature” which can sometimes open up issues. Make sure your Apple ID password is a strong one; using a password manager can help.
@Brads
But don’t change your password from that phone, just in case. Use another device for that. It’s also a good idea to run a security scan with a reliable app.
LizCampbell said:
@Brads
But don’t change your password from that phone, just in case. Use another device for that. It’s also a good idea to run a security scan with a reliable app.
Right… if they really can see everything, it’s best to avoid using any Apple product to change your password.
After you get it changed, I’d also do a factory reset on your phone and any linked Apple devices like a Mac.
If you’ve visited shady sites without any protection, downloaded suspicious apps, opened weird messages or emails, or if your phone is outdated, those could all be ways spyware got in.
You could restore your phone to an older backup, from before you think it got infected. There are some antivirus apps in the app store too. Personally, I usually go with a factory reset for these things, but check for a rootkit afterward just to be sure, since rootkits can be hard to get rid of. Avast has a free scanner that might help.
You might not need a new Apple ID or phone number, but keep an eye on what info they might’ve accessed on your phone. Change passwords (from a safe device), and if you do any banking or have other sensitive accounts on your phone, make sure those are protected.