Phone Spy

Is Your Phone Spying on You?

Is your phone listening when you’re not?

We’ve all had that eerie moment: you’re chatting about BBQs, a new sofa, or a holiday — and within the hour, Facebook or Instagram serves up an advert for exactly that.

You never searched for it. You never typed it. But the ads just appear.

So, what’s going on?

The Truth About Microphone Access

Most apps you download ask for “permissions” when you first install them. Some need your microphone — like WhatsApp or Teams. But others? Games, utilities, or apps that have no reason to “listen” still request it.

And once permission is granted, they don’t stop just because you aren’t using the app. They’re always there in the background, waiting.

That creates two big problems:

Privacy intrusion — your conversations fuel ad targeting.
Security risk — hackers can exploit the same backdoors that apps are allowed to use.

The Quick Fix

Here’s how to lock it down in under five minutes:

Open Settings on your phone.
Go to Privacy → Microphone.
Scroll the list.
Switch OFF access for apps that don’t genuinely need it.

If you spot a random game or shopping app sitting there with microphone access — cut it off.

Why It Matters

This tiny step massively reduces your exposure. It keeps pushy apps from snooping, and more importantly, it blocks cybercriminals who piggyback those same permissions to hijack devices.

Think of it like shutting the blinds at night. Your home feels safer — and so should your phone.

Take five minutes today. Your phone shouldn’t be the nosiest mate you’ve got.

Stay Safe. Stay Secure.

A #BBunker blog by Munio IT