How Phones Get Hacked: What Every Australian Needs to Know (and Do!)

• phone security
• mobile hacking
• cyber safety

Think your iPhone or Android is hack-proof? Discover common phone hacking tactics, warning signs, and easy steps to keep your device and data safe.

Are Phones Really Getting Hacked in 2025?

Phones are more secure than ever, but they’re not invincible. Both iPhones and Androids have strong protections, yet hackers are getting smarter, using everyday tricks and exploiting gaps in security and human habits. Even if you don’t have secret government data, you can still become a target—often because of one bad click or an overlooked setting.

How Do Hackers Actually Take Over Phones?

• Phishing: The most common entry point. Hackers send fake emails, texts, or calls that look legit (bank alerts, package delivery, etc.) to get you to click a link or reveal private info.
• SIM Swapping: Scammers trick your phone company into moving your number to their SIM, intercepting your texts and calls—especially those all-important login codes.
• Malicious Apps: Especially risky if you sideload apps (install from unofficial sources). Some apps may look harmless but are designed to spy, steal data, or even let someone remotely control your phone.
• Public Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Attacks: Using unsecured Wi-Fi or leaving Bluetooth on in public can let hackers intercept your data or inject malware.
• Rare Spyware: Sophisticated tools like Pegasus can target high-profile individuals, but most people are compromised by simple tricks, not super-spy tech.

Red Flags: Signs Your Phone Has Been Hacked

• Your phone sends messages you didn’t write, or installs unknown apps.
• Battery drains quickly or phone overheats even when idle.
• Pop-ups appear unexpectedly, or your phone is unusually slow or glitchy.
• Contacts report strange messages from you.
• You’re suddenly locked out of accounts, or your phone service stops working (could be SIM swap).

What to Do If You Suspect a Hack

• Change Your Passwords: Start with your most important accounts—banking, email, social media. Make sure they’re strong and unique. Use a password manager if you need help keeping track.
• Check Installed Apps: Review every app on your device. Delete anything you don’t recognise or use, especially if you didn’t install it.
• Update Your Software: Make sure your phone’s OS and all apps are up to date. Many hacks rely on old vulnerabilities.
• Install a Trusted Antivirus App: It’s an extra layer of security for scanning malware and blocking dangerous files and websites, especially on Android.
• Contact Your Provider: Add a PIN or port-out protection to your mobile account to prevent SIM swapping.
• Factory Reset: If the problems persist, back up your data and do a full reset. This wipes most malware. Only reinstall trusted apps afterward.
• Consider Professional Help: If you think you’ve been targeted by sophisticated spyware, seek help from a cybersecurity expert or consider getting a new device.

How to Prevent Your Phone from Getting Hacked

• Never click suspicious links or download files from unknown senders.
• Be careful with public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN, or avoid entering sensitive info when connected.
• Don’t overshare on social media—hackers collect details to guess passwords or answer security questions.
• Set up two-factor authentication (preferably with an authenticator app, not just SMS codes).
• Regularly review your phone and account settings.
• Use a data removal service to limit your exposure on the internet—especially if your info has already been leaked.

Final Thoughts

Hacking doesn’t always mean high-tech crime—most attacks rely on simple mistakes. If your phone acts strange, don’t ignore it. Take action, update everything, and don’t be afraid to get expert help if needed. With strong habits, a little caution, and the right tools, you can keep your phone—and your data—safe from today’s hackers.