I Think My Device Is Compromised
It’s easy to explain away unusual phone or computer behaviour as a glitch. Technology slows down, batteries wear out, and apps can occasionally misbehave.
However, repeated or unexplained changes can be more like the first signs of an insect infestation: a few ants on the surface may not seem alarming, but they can point to activity hidden out of sight. On a device, this hidden activity could involve spyware, unauthorised access, or someone tracking your information without permission.
Recognising these warning signs early is key to protecting your privacy and keeping control of your digital life.
The early signs: A few ants
Like a singular ant, most individual issues can have a harmless explanation. However, if a combination of issues are ignored, it could lead to a bigger uncontrollable infestation.
- Battery draining much faster than usual, even with light use
- The device running hot when you are not actively using it
- Unknown apps, profiles, or permissions appearing
- Data usage suddenly increasing without a clear reason
- Settings such as location, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi turning on by themselves
- Strange pop-ups, messages, or security warning
- Clicking, echoes, or background noise during calls
- Slower performance or frequent crashes
- New programs, browser extensions, or toolbars you didn’t install
- Your webcam light turning on unexpectedly
- Files moving, changing, or disappearing
Signs beyond the screen: movement in the walls
Like termites hidden inside timber, monitoring is not always visible on the device itself.
Sometimes the warning signs show up in everyday life:
- Someone knows private information you only shared online or in messages
- Unexpected password reset emails or login alerts
- Friends receiving strange messages that appear to come from you
These signs suggest the problem may be spreading beyond a single device.
What to do first: stop the spread
If you’re concerned, start with practical containment steps:
- Update your device
Install the latest operating system and security updates. - Check apps and permissions
Remove anything unfamiliar or unnecessary. - Change important passwords
Begin with email, banking, and social media. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. - Run reputable security software
Scan for malware or spyware. - Back up important data
This protects your information if a full reset becomes necessary.
Early action can prevent a small problem becoming a major compromise.
When to seek help: structural damage
Seek support or contact police if:
- You believe someone may be monitoring you
- Suspicious behaviour continues after updates, scans, or password changes
- Your accounts, finances, personal information, or safety could be at risk
In Australia, you can contact IDCARE for identity and cyber support or report cybercrime through cyber.gov.au
Technology issues are common, and many are harmless. But when problems begin to multiply, trusting your instincts matters. Acting early, taking practical steps, and asking for help when needed are the best ways to protect your privacy and stay in control of your digital life.
Let's Keep Victoria Safe Together.
We’ve partnered with BankVic to help keep our community safe from scams and criminal activity while online! Stay up to date with the latest tips and information in one convenient place, empowering you to prevent online crime and outsmart scammers. Together, we can create a safer internet for everyone!
If you have information about a crime or suspicious activity, you can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers online reporting platform or call 1800 333 000.