Spyware Threats: How to Detect and Protect Yourself

The spyware market is rapidly expanding, and even Google is voicing concerns over the potential “real-world harm” caused by these invasive tools. Experts are warning that modern spyware, like the Predator tool, has become more difficult to detect while leaving little trace on infected devices. This rise in advanced spyware is fueling calls for a ban on such tools by civil societies.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a type of malware that secretly installs on your device to collect sensitive data, including your location, camera, microphone, messages, browsing history, and passwords. Notorious spyware like Pegasus and Predator use both one-click and zero-click attacks, meaning they can infect devices without users needing to interact with malicious links.

These tools are often used by law enforcement, military, and intelligence agencies, but they have also been abused against human rights activists, journalists, and politicians. Beyond these cases, anyone can be a target for hackers or cybercriminals.

Types of Spyware

1. Adware: Unwanted pop-ups or advertisements that may inject malicious content.
2. Stalkerware: Monitors your activities, collects keystrokes, and can access your camera and microphone.
3. Keyloggers: Records your keystrokes to steal login credentials and other sensitive information.
4. Rootkits: Enables cybercriminals to spy on you, steal data, and install other malware, often avoiding detection.
5. Trojans: Disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into downloading it.

Detecting Spyware on Your Device

Spyware is increasingly harder to spot, but certain warning signs can help you identify an infection:

• Slow device performance or frequent crashes.
• More pop-ups than usual.
• Suspicious apps you didn’t install.

These issues aren’t exclusive to spyware but indicate potential malware infections. Antivirus scans and malware removal tools can help you detect and remove the spyware.

Protecting Yourself from Spyware

While security tools like VPNs or antivirus software can help, they cannot guarantee full protection. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Update all applications and operating systems to patch vulnerabilities.
• Use a VPN to secure public Wi-Fi connections and block trackers.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links and run them through link checkers like NordVPN’s tool.

If spyware is detected, delete any unfamiliar apps and use trusted spyware removal tools like Malwarebytes or Avast One to clean your system. In severe cases, a factory reset may be required.