Most people want more privacy online, but switching entirely to a heavily restricted browser can create problems. Logins may fail, payment pages may not load correctly, embedded content may disappear, and commonly used features may stop working.

The answer does not have to be choosing between convenience and privacy. A practical alternative is to use two separate browser environments—one for normal activity and another for privacy-sensitive browsing.

Why Use Two Browsers?

Browsers accumulate information about how they are used. This can include cookies, browsing history, saved accounts, autofill information, extensions, search activity, permissions, and other identifiers. When everything happens in one browser, personal accounts and everyday activity can become connected with research, interests, and other browsing that the user may prefer to keep separate.

Using a second browser or dedicated browser profile creates a boundary between these activities. It reduces the ability of cookies, saved accounts, extensions, and browsing history from one environment to follow the user into the other. This is called compartmentalization: separating activities so information from one area does not automatically carry into another.

The Recommended Setup

Use a conventional browser for normal daily activity. This may be Chrome, Safari, Edge, or another regularly updated browser that works reliably with the websites and services you use.

Use it for:

• Work platforms
• Email
• Banking
• Shopping
• Social media
• Streaming
• Websites requiring saved accounts
• Services where compatibility is important

Then use a separate privacy-focused browser for:

• Sensitive-topic research
• Temporary browsing sessions
• Websites you do not want added to your normal history
• Research you do not want mixed with your regular advertising profile
• Browsing without personal accounts already signed in
• Visiting heavily tracked websites
• Comparing products or services before signing in

Desktop Setup: Create a Private Firefox Profile

Installing Firefox alone provides some separation from Chrome or Safari. Creating a dedicated Firefox profile provides an additional boundary.

A Firefox profile maintains its own history, cookies, passwords, bookmarks, extensions, and preferences.

To create one:

1. Install Firefox and keep automatic updates enabled.
2. Enter the following into the address bar: about:profiles
3. Select “Create a New Profile.”
4. Name it something recognizable, such as “Private.”
5. Launch the new profile in a separate browser window.

For better separation, do not connect this profile to the same browser-sync account or personal accounts used for everyday browsing.

Recommended Firefox Privacy Settings

Open Firefox Settings and select Privacy & Security.

• Enhanced Tracking Protection – Set Enhanced Tracking Protection to Strict. Firefox already provides Total Cookie Protection under its standard protection. Strict mode adds stronger blocking of cross-site cookies, tracking content, fingerprinters, social trackers, cryptominers, and certain redirect-based tracking. Strict protection can occasionally interfere with logins, forms, payments, comments, or embedded videos. If a trusted website does not work, temporarily create an exception for that website instead of weakening protection globally.
• HTTPS-Only Mode – Enable HTTPS-Only Mode for all windows. This instructs Firefox to use encrypted HTTPS connections whenever a website supports them. A warning will appear before Firefox connects to a website that is available only through an unencrypted connection.
• DNS Over HTTPS – Enable DNS over HTTPS in the Privacy & Security settings. This encrypts domain-name lookups so they are not transmitted as ordinary, readable DNS requests. It does not conceal all internet activity, and it may conflict with corporate security systems, parental controls, or network-level threat filtering.
• Global Privacy Control – Enable “Tell websites not to sell or share my data.” This sends a Global Privacy Control signal to websites. It is recognized as a privacy request in some jurisdictions, although it is only a signal and does not physically block tracking.
• Browsing Data – Configure Firefox to clear cookies, site data, and browsing history when the privacy profile closes. If you need certain sessions to remain available, clear this information manually after sensitive browsing instead.
• Data Collection – Under Firefox Data Collection and Use, disable technical and interaction data sharing if you do not want the browser sending optional performance and feature-use information to Mozilla.
• Extensions – Keep extensions to a minimum. Every extension introduces additional code and permissions into the browser. Only install extensions from reputable sources, review their requested permissions, and remove anything no longer needed. Firefox’s built-in protections may be sufficient for many users without adding multiple privacy extensions.
• Updates – Allow Firefox to update automatically and restart it when an update is ready. Browser vulnerabilities are regularly discovered in every major browser. Staying current is more important to security than choosing a browser and then failing to update it.

Mobile Setup: Firefox Focus

On a mobile device, Firefox Focus provides a simple dedicated browser for temporary and privacy-sensitive sessions.

It can block known advertising, analytics, social, and other content trackers. It also provides a prominent erase function that clears the current session.

Recommended setup:

1. Install Firefox Focus.
2. Open Settings and enable Enhanced Tracking Protection.
3. Enable blocking for advertising, analytics, and social trackers.
4. Consider blocking other content trackers, but understand that this may prevent videos, slideshows, and other embedded content from working.
5. Disable anonymous usage data if you do not want to provide optional analytics.
6. Use the erase control after each private session.
7. Avoid signing into personal accounts unless the activity must be connected to your identity.

If a website does not work properly, open it in the normal browser. That is the purpose of maintaining two separate options.

Privacy Does Not Mean Anonymity

A separate browser can reduce tracking and keep activities from being mixed together, but it does not make the user invisible.

Websites may still see:

• The device’s IP address
• Approximate location
• Device and browser characteristics
• Information deliberately entered into a form
• Accounts used to sign in
• Payment or shipping information
• Files downloaded from the website

Your internet provider, employer, network administrator, or VPN provider may also retain some visibility depending on the connection and configuration.

Signing into the same Google, Microsoft, social media, or shopping account in both browsers also gives that service a direct way to associate the sessions.

A VPN can reduce IP-based exposure and protect traffic on the local network, but it does not prevent identification when the user signs into an account or submits identifying information.

Security Still Matters in Both Browsers

The everyday browser should not be treated as disposable or insecure.

Keep its security protections enabled, install updates promptly, remove unnecessary extensions, use a password manager, and enable multifactor authentication on important accounts.

Chrome users should keep Safe Browsing enabled. Enhanced Protection may identify previously unknown threats more quickly, but it also sends additional URLs, page samples, extension activity, and system information to Google for security analysis. Users should select the protection level that best matches their risk and privacy priorities.

Safari users should enable Prevent Cross-Site Tracking and keep macOS, iOS, and Safari updated.

A Practical Balance

The goal is not to make ordinary browsing difficult. The goal is to place different activities into the appropriate environment.

Use the regular browser when compatibility and convenience matter. Use the privacy-focused browser when you want fewer trackers, less retained history, and greater separation from your everyday accounts.

This approach is easy to maintain, costs nothing, and provides meaningful privacy improvements without requiring the user to sacrifice the normal functionality of a modern browser.

References

Mozilla: Enhanced Tracking Protection

Mozilla: Firefox Profile Manager

Mozilla: Firefox Focus

Mozilla: Private Browsing Limitations

Mozilla: DNS over HTTPS

Mozilla: Global Privacy Control

Google: Chrome Safe Browsing Protection Levels

Apple: Prevent Cross-Site Tracking in Safari

A growing number of videos on social media claim that you can give ChatGPT your name, ask it to find your personal information, and then instruct it to “remove everything from the internet.”

The idea is appealing. The reality is more complicated.

Artificial intelligence can dramatically accelerate the process of identifying exposed information, researching removal procedures, drafting opt-out requests, organizing the results, and conducting follow-up research. But there is no single command that erases a person from the internet.

Effective digital-footprint reduction requires a deliberate process: discover the information, identify the source, remove or suppress it at the source whenever possible, address search-engine results, verify the removal, and periodically repeat the process.

For executives, public figures, high-net-worth families, victims of stalking or harassment, and others with elevated exposure concerns, this should be treated as an ongoing security function rather than a one-time privacy exercise.

Here is how to do it.

Understand What You Are Trying to Remove

People-search websites and data brokers can aggregate an extraordinary amount of information about an individual.

The Federal Trade Commission explains that people-search services may obtain information from other data brokers, publicly viewable social-media profiles, and federal, state, and local public records. The resulting reports may contain current and previous addresses, telephone numbers, relatives, property records, employment information, marital information, court records, and other personal details. (Consumer Advice)

From a security perspective, the concern is not simply that one website knows your address. The larger problem is aggregation.

An adversary may be able to combine a residential address from one source, family relationships from another, employment information from LinkedIn, property ownership from government records, photographs from social media, and a mobile number from a people-search site.

Individually, each piece may seem insignificant. Combined, they can create a useful targeting package.

The goal therefore should not be to “disappear from Google.”

The goal is to reduce the amount of reliable, actionable information that an unauthorized person can quickly obtain about you.

Step 1: Set Up the Process Safely

Before using an AI tool to assist with privacy research, practice data minimization.

Do not start by entering your Social Security number, complete date of birth, driver’s-license number, passport number, financial information, passwords, or other highly sensitive identifiers.

This is particularly important when using web-enabled AI. OpenAI explains that ChatGPT Search may rewrite a user’s request into targeted search queries and send those queries to third-party search providers. (OpenAI Help Center)

Use the minimum information necessary to distinguish yourself from others.

A name, general city or state, profession, and perhaps an old city may be sufficient for an initial search.

For additional privacy, ChatGPT users can also use Temporary Chat. OpenAI states that Temporary Chats are not saved in chat history, do not create memories, are not used to train models, and are deleted from OpenAI’s systems after 30 days. Users can also disable “Improve the model for everyone” through Data Controls. (OpenAI Help Center)

Step 2: Build a Digital Exposure Inventory

Do not immediately start deleting things.

First, identify what exists.

Use ChatGPT Search or another search engine to perform an organized exposure assessment.

A useful starting prompt is:

Act as a privacy and digital-exposure research assistant.

Help me identify publicly accessible information about me that could create privacy, identity-theft, social-engineering, stalking, harassment, or physical-security concerns.

Search for people-search websites, data brokers, directories, public-record aggregators, exposed contact information, professional profiles, property associations, family associations, and other publicly accessible sources.

I will provide only enough information to distinguish me from people with similar names.

For each confirmed result, identify:

Website or organization

Exact page containing the information

Type of information exposed

Apparent source of the information

Whether an official opt-out or removal process exists

Recommended priority: Critical, High, Medium, or Low

Do not unnecessarily repeat my address, phone number, email address, date of birth, relatives’ information, or other sensitive information in your response. Mask those details whenever possible.

Do not submit any removal requests. First create the exposure inventory for my review.

The purpose of this stage is confirmation.

People frequently share names, and automated search results can identify the wrong person. Each result should therefore be verified before any action is taken.

Step 3: Prioritize What Actually Creates Risk

Not every online reference deserves the same level of attention.

A ten-year-old article mentioning your participation in a charity event probably represents less security risk than a people-search profile showing your current home address, mobile number, spouse, children, previous residences, and estimated age.

Start with information that helps someone locate, contact, impersonate, profile, or target you.

A sensible priority order is current residential information; personal telephone numbers and email addresses; family and household associations; dates of birth and age information; property associations; sensitive professional information; vehicle or location information where publicly exposed; and combinations of information that could facilitate authentication questions, social engineering, or impersonation.

The key consideration is not merely whether information is “private.” It is whether the information becomes operationally useful when combined with other information.

Step 4: Find the Official Removal Process

Once a listing has been confirmed, determine how the organization handles opt-outs.

The FTC advises consumers to search for themselves on people-search sites and follow the site’s opt-out procedure. If the procedure is difficult to locate, the FTC recommends searching for the company’s name together with terms such as “opt out” or “remove my information.” (Consumer Advice)

AI can make this process considerably faster.

Use this prompt:

Review each confirmed exposure in my inventory.

Locate the current official privacy, deletion, suppression, or opt-out procedure published by the company itself.

For each site, tell me:

The official removal method

What information is required

Whether email verification is required

Whether identity verification is required

Whether the company publishes a processing timeframe

Whether removal applies only to the specific profile or more broadly to the company’s databases

Whether the company warns that the information may reappear

Flag any procedure that asks me to provide significantly more sensitive information than the company already displays.

Prefer the company’s official privacy page over instructions published by third parties.

This last point matters.

Search results for privacy services and opt-outs can include advertisements, outdated instructions, lead-generation pages, and third-party companies attempting to sell removal services.

Whenever possible, work through the company’s official privacy mechanism.

Step 5: Submit the Opt-Outs

Many people-search companies provide an online form rather than requiring a formal letter.

Where a written request is necessary, ChatGPT can draft it.

Use:

Draft a concise personal-information removal request for this company.

Request removal of the identified public profile and suppression of the associated information from public people-search results where permitted.

Include only the minimum information necessary to identify the record.

Do not include my Social Security number, full date of birth, government identification number, or other sensitive information unless the company’s verified official procedure legally requires it.

Ask the company to confirm when the request has been processed.

A typical request may read:

Hello,

I am requesting removal and suppression of my personal information from your publicly accessible people-search service.

The profile is located at:

[PROFILE URL]

Please remove the identified profile and suppress the associated record from publicly accessible search results in accordance with your privacy and opt-out procedures.

Please confirm when the request has been processed.

Thank you.

Do not send more information than necessary merely because a form provides space for it.

Step 6: Take Advantage of State Privacy Tools

Privacy rights vary by jurisdiction, so individuals should determine whether their state provides additional deletion or opt-out rights.

California residents now have an especially important option.

California’s Delete Request and Opt-out Platform, commonly known as DROP, allows an eligible California resident to submit a deletion request covering more than 600 registered data brokers through a single process. The platform began accepting consumer requests in January 2026, and registered brokers became subject to processing requirements beginning August 1, 2026. (privacy.ca.gov)

California’s privacy agency states that data brokers must regularly access the system and process matching deletion requests, subject to applicable exemptions. Consumers can also monitor the status of their requests. (privacy.ca.gov)

For eligible California residents, completing DROP should therefore be one of the first major actions in a digital-footprint reduction project.

Other jurisdictions may provide different privacy rights or data-broker registries, so current requirements should be researched based on residency.

Step 7: Remove the Information at the Source Before Focusing on Google

This is one of the most important distinctions missed in many social-media tutorials.

Removing a result from Google does not necessarily remove the information from the internet.

Google specifically states that it can remove qualifying information from Google Search results, but that removal does not delete the information from the website hosting it. (Google Support)

Whenever practical, remove the information from the original source first.

Then address the search engine.

For example, if a people-search company deletes your profile but the old Google result remains visible, Google provides a process for refreshing outdated search results. (Google Support)

If the source refuses removal, Google also accepts requests involving certain categories of personal information. Its current policy allows requests involving information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, government identification numbers, financial information, medical records, login credentials, and certain doxxing content. (Google Support)

Google’s “Results about you” feature can also help locate search results containing personal contact information such as an address, telephone number, or email address and can provide notifications about new results in supported markets. (Google Support)

Use this ChatGPT prompt to organize the process:

Review my confirmed exposure inventory specifically for Google Search.

Separate the results into:

Results where the information should be removed from the underlying website first.

Results that may qualify for Google’s personal-information removal process.

Results where the underlying information has already been removed or changed and Google’s outdated-content process may be appropriate.

Explain the correct process for each result.

Do not assume that removing something from Google removes the underlying webpage.

Step 8: Find the Upstream Source

One of the most valuable steps is determining where the data originated.

The same residential address may appear across ten websites because all ten obtained it from one underlying source.

Ask:

Analyze the confirmed exposures for signs that multiple websites are obtaining the information from the same underlying source.

Identify possible upstream sources, including public records, government databases, social-media profiles, professional registrations, corporate records, property records, and other data brokers.

Do not unnecessarily reproduce sensitive information.

Show me which upstream sources appear to be feeding multiple downstream exposures so I can prioritize them.

This is where digital-footprint reduction becomes much more effective.

Removing ten copies of information without addressing the source can become an endless cycle.

Removing or limiting the upstream source, where legally and practically possible, can reduce future replication.

Step 9: Review Your Own Digital Behavior

Data brokers are only part of the problem.

Review social-media privacy settings, old social accounts, personal websites, professional biographies, photographs, public calendars, online wish lists, fitness applications, family accounts, business registrations, domain-registration information, and other services where you voluntarily provide personal information.

Look at photographs carefully.

Background details can sometimes identify residences, schools, vehicles, regular destinations, children’s activities, workplaces, travel patterns, or routines even when the accompanying caption appears harmless.

For someone with elevated security concerns, digital exposure should be analyzed from the perspective of an adversary:

“If I wanted to locate this person, identify their family, determine their routine, impersonate someone they trust, or develop an approach strategy, what could I learn from the information currently available?”

That question produces a very different assessment from simply searching your name.

Step 10: Verify Every Removal

Never assume that submitting an opt-out means the information disappeared.

Create a tracker containing the original URL, date discovered, information exposed, removal method, date submitted, confirmation received, expected processing period, verification date, Google status, and final disposition.

After the company’s stated processing period has passed, visit the original URL again.

Then perform the original searches again.

Check alternate spellings of the name, previous locations, telephone numbers, and other appropriate identifiers.

If a record has disappeared from the source but remains visible in a search-engine result, address the outdated search result separately.

Step 11: Expect Some Information to Return

Digital-footprint reduction is not usually permanent.

The FTC specifically warns that people-search information may reappear, particularly when public records change. The FTC also notes that removing your own profile does not necessarily remove information about you that appears in reports associated with relatives, neighbors, or associates. (Consumer Advice)

That makes recurring verification essential.

A reasonable protective-security approach is to conduct a targeted review more frequently for individuals facing elevated threats and a broader reassessment periodically for everyone else.

Use this follow-up prompt:

Repeat the digital-exposure assessment using the same methodology as our original review.

Compare the current results against the previous exposure inventory.

Identify:

Previously removed information that has reappeared

New people-search profiles

New addresses, telephone numbers, emails, relatives, or property associations

New indexed search results

New upstream sources

Previously submitted removals that appear to have failed

Do not reproduce sensitive information unnecessarily.

Give me only the changes and the recommended actions.

The Bottom Line

AI can make digital-footprint reduction substantially more efficient, but it should be viewed as an analyst and workflow assistant rather than a magic deletion button.

The most effective process is straightforward:

Discover the exposure. Confirm that the information is accurate. Prioritize information that creates real security risk. Remove it from the original source. Exercise available privacy and data-broker opt-out rights. Address residual search-engine results. Verify the removal. Identify upstream sources. Then repeat the process periodically.

For ordinary privacy concerns, that can significantly reduce unwanted exposure.

For executives, public figures, high-profile families, stalking victims, or anyone experiencing a credible threat, the same methodology should be incorporated into a broader protective-intelligence and digital-risk program. The objective is not simply privacy.

It is reducing the amount of actionable information available to someone who may intend to use it against you.

Information current as of August 2026. Privacy laws, platform policies, and data-broker removal procedures change regularly and should be verified before action is taken.

Keep the System Updated

Install security updates promptly and keep the operating system, kernel, browser, applications, and firmware current.

Common commands include:

Debian, Ubuntu, and Linux Mint:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Fedora:

sudo dnf upgrade

Arch Linux:

sudo pacman -Syu

Avoid unsupported distributions and remove obsolete or untrusted software repositories.

Encrypt the Device

Full-disk encryption is one of the most important protections for laptops and mobile workstations. Most modern Linux distributions support LUKS encryption during installation.

Use a strong encryption passphrase, encrypt removable media containing sensitive information, and store recovery information separately from the device.

Encryption provides its strongest protection when the computer is fully powered off.

Use Strong Authentication

Use a strong, unique login password and avoid routinely operating as the root user.

For online accounts:

• Use a password manager.
• Use unique passwords for every account.
• Enable multifactor authentication.
• Prefer passkeys or hardware security keys for high-value accounts.

Automatic screen locking should also be enabled, ideally after five to ten minutes of inactivity.

Enable the Firewall

A desktop or laptop generally should not accept unsolicited incoming connections.

On systems using UFW:

sudo ufw default deny incoming
sudo ufw default allow outgoing
sudo ufw enable

Review listening network services with:

sudo ss -tulpn

Disable services such as SSH, remote desktop, file sharing, web servers, or databases when they are not required.

Keep Linux Security Controls Enabled

Many Linux distributions include mandatory access controls such as AppArmor or SELinux.

Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and many Debian-based distributions commonly use AppArmor.

Fedora and RHEL-family distributions commonly use SELinux.

These protections should generally remain enabled. If an application encounters a policy issue, investigate the configuration rather than disabling the security framework.

Reduce the Attack Surface

Every unnecessary application or background service increases potential exposure.

Periodically review:

systemctl --type=service --state=running

and:

systemctl list-unit-files --state=enabled

Remove unused applications, disable unnecessary startup programs, and avoid installing software from unknown repositories or unverified scripts.

Secure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Treat public networks as untrusted.

Recommended practices include:

• Disable automatic connection to unknown networks.
• Remove obsolete saved Wi-Fi profiles.
• Prefer WPA2 or WPA3 networks.
• Use a trusted hotspot when practical.
• Use an approved VPN on untrusted networks.
• Disable Bluetooth when it is not needed.

Saved NetworkManager connections can be reviewed with:

nmcli connection show

Secure the Browser

The browser is one of the most exposed applications on any workstation.

Keep it updated and:

• Minimize extensions.
• Restrict camera and microphone access.
• Restrict location permissions.
• Limit third-party tracking.
• Disable unnecessary notifications.
• Consider separate browser profiles for work, personal use, and research.

Browser extensions should be treated as privileged software because many can access webpage content and account sessions.

Protect Sensitive Files and Credentials

Use restrictive permissions for confidential files.

For example:

chmod 600 sensitive-file
chmod 700 private-directory

Never routinely use broad permissions such as:

chmod 777

Protect SSH private keys, API credentials, VPN profiles, and other secrets.

Avoid placing passwords or tokens directly into command-line instructions, where they may be recorded in shell history.

Control USB and Removable Media

Unknown USB devices should never be trusted.

USB hardware can impersonate storage devices, keyboards, network adapters, or multiple devices simultaneously.

Encrypt removable drives containing sensitive information and consider USB authorization controls for higher-security environments.

Maintain Secure Backups

Security also means being able to recover.

Maintain encrypted backups of important information and periodically verify that those backups can actually be restored.

System snapshots such as Timeshift, Btrfs snapshots, or ZFS snapshots can help recover from failed updates or configuration changes, but they should not replace independent backups of important data.

Be More Restrictive During Travel

For personnel handling sensitive information, travel introduces additional risk.

Consider:

• A dedicated travel laptop
• Minimal locally stored information
• Full-disk encryption
• Hardware security keys
• Bluetooth disabled
• Automatic Wi-Fi connections disabled
• An organization-controlled VPN
• Restricted USB access
• Complete shutdown during uncontrolled physical custody
• Pre-travel and post-travel security reviews

The Bottom Line

Linux provides a strong security foundation, but effective protection comes from configuration and operating practices rather than the operating system name alone.

A strong Linux security baseline includes:

• Prompt security updates
• Full-disk encryption
• Strong authentication
• Automatic screen locking
• An enabled firewall
• Minimal exposed services
• AppArmor or SELinux
• A password manager and MFA
• Secure browser settings
• Encrypted and tested backups
• Careful Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB use

The goal is not to apply every hardening setting available. The goal is to reduce unnecessary exposure while keeping the system secure, reliable, understandable, and recoverable.

–

Software Updates

Purpose: Maintain current patches to reduce exposure to known exploits.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
  
• Enable Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Receive updates for other Microsoft products.
  
• Enable Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Download updates over metered connections, if operational need requires.
  
• Remove unused applications to reduce attack surface.
  

–

Microsoft Account, Sign-in Options & Recovery

Purpose: The Microsoft account controls synchronization, recovery, and cloud access. Improper configuration increases exposure.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Accounts → Your info. Use a strong, unique Microsoft account password.
  
• Enable Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Two-step verification (via https://account.microsoft.com/security).
  
• Disable Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Dynamic Lock if not required.
  
• Enable Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Facial recognition or fingerprint only if operational needs outweigh biometric privacy concerns.
  
• Review and remove old or unknown devices at https://account.microsoft.com/devices.
  

–

Local Account Option (Increased Privacy)

Purpose: Eliminates cloud-level telemetry and remote recovery linkages.

Recommendations:

• To convert: Settings → Accounts → Your info → Sign in with a local account instead.
  
• Maintain strong password discipline if using a local-only configuration.
  

–

Device Encryption & BitLocker

Purpose: Protects data at rest from physical access or theft.

Recommendations:

• For Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise: Control Panel → System and Security → BitLocker Drive Encryption → Turn on BitLocker.
  
• For Windows 11 Home (if Device Encryption available): Settings → Privacy & security → Device encryption → Enable Device encryption.
  
• Use TPM + PIN configuration for strongest protection: Search “gpedit.msc” → Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → BitLocker Drive Encryption → Require additional authentication at startup → Enable.
  
• Store recovery keys offline in secure physical storage.
  

–

Privacy Controls & Telemetry Reduction

Purpose: Windows 11 defaults to extensive telemetry. Reducing it improves privacy.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → General → Turn off all advertising and tracking toggles.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Speech → Turn off Online speech recognition.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Inking & typing personalization → Turn off.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Diagnostics & feedback:
  • Set Diagnostic data to Required only.
  • Disable Improve inking & typing.
  • Disable Tailored experiences.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Activity history → Uncheck Store my activity history on this device and Clear history.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Location:
  • Disable Location entirely unless required.
  • Disable Location services for unneeded apps.
  
• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → App permissions:
  • Review Camera, Microphone, Contacts, Phone calls, Messages, Videos, File system.
  • Disable any app permission not explicitly required.
  

–

Account Sync, Cloud & OneDrive Exposure

Purpose: Cloud synchronization increases risk of remote account compromise.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Accounts → Windows backup → Turn off Remember my apps and Remember my preferences if unnecessary.
  
• Go to Settings → Accounts → Sync your settings → Disable sync features not required.
  
• For OneDrive:
  • Right-click OneDrive icon in Taskbar → Settings → Sync and backup → Review only necessary folders.
  • Disable or limit cloud storage of sensitive documents.
  
• Consider disabling OneDrive entirely if not essential.
  

–

Web Browser Hardening

Purpose: Browsers are high-risk vectors for tracking and exploitation.

Recommendations (Microsoft Edge):

• Open Edge → Settings → Privacy, search, and services →
  • Set Tracking prevention to Strict.
  • Turn off Personalization & advertising.
  • Turn off Send “Do Not Track” unless needed.
  
• Open Edge → Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Block third-party cookies.
  
• Open Edge → Settings → Downloads → Require confirmation for each download.
  
• Open Edge → Settings → Extensions → Remove unused extensions.
  
• Consider a hardened browser (Firefox hardened configuration) for sensitive work.
  

–

Firewall & Network Controls

Purpose: Restricts unauthorized inbound/outbound traffic.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Windows Security → Firewall & network protection → Ensure Domain, Private, and Public firewalls are all enabled.
  
• For outbound control:
  • Open Windows Security → Firewall & network protection → Advanced settings → Outbound Rules → Create restrictive rules for unnecessary applications.
  
• Go to Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks → Forget networks not in active use.
  
• Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed:
  Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → Off.
  Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Bluetooth → Off.
  
• For public networks:
  Settings → Network & Internet → Properties → Set Network profile to Public.
  

–

Application Control & Exploit Protection

Purpose: Prevents unauthorized software from running.

Recommendations:

• Open Settings → Privacy & security → Windows Security → App & browser control:
  • Enable Reputation-based protection.
  • Enable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Store apps.
  
• Open Windows Security → Device security → Core isolation → Enable Memory integrity.
  
• Open Windows Security → App & browser control → Exploit protection → Turn on system-level mitigations.
  

–

Physical Security & Lockdown

Purpose: Prevent unauthorized local access.

Recommendations:

• Go to Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Require sign-in → Every time.
  
• Go to Settings → Personalization → Lock screen → Set Screen timeout to short duration.
  
• Use a strong alphanumeric password (avoid simple PIN-only access).
  
• If threat model warrants:
  • Disable external boot: Search “Windows Security” → Device security → Security processor → Configure firmware protection settings.
  • Use tamper-evident seals on chassis for travel.
  
• Avoid public USB charging stations; use your own power supply.
  

–

Backup & Data Lifecycle

Purpose: Enables secure recovery without exposing data to third parties.

Recommendations:

• Use encrypted external drives: Control Panel → System and Security → BitLocker Drive Encryption → Turn on BitLocker (for external USB).
  
• Go to Settings → System → Storage → Advanced storage settings → Backup options → Configure local/offline backups.
  
• Review and delete unnecessary files regularly.
  
• Avoid automatic cloud backup for sensitive content unless mission-critical.
  

–

Monitoring & Incident Response

Purpose: Early detection of abnormal activity reduces damage from intrusion.

Recommendations:

• Open Windows Security → Protection history → Review blocked threats, quarantined items, and system changes.
  
• Use Event Viewer → Windows Logs → Security for authentication logs.
  
• If compromise suspected:
  • Disconnect network.
  • Change critical passwords from an uncompromised device.
  • Restore system from a known-good offline backup.
  • Review active sessions at https://account.microsoft.com/security.
  

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High-Risk User Adjustments

For executives, travelers, sensitive operations, or threat-focused environments:

• Use a dedicated travel laptop with minimal installed software.
  
• Disable wireless radios unless actively in use (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC).
  
• Use hardware authentication keys (FIDO2 tokens).
  
• Use a hardened browser environment or sandbox for sensitive operations.
  
• Avoid storing sensitive files long-term on the device; use encrypted removable media when needed.
  
• Conduct physical inspections for tampering during travel.
  

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Conclusion

Windows 11 can be secured to a high level with the correct configurations and discipline. Reducing telemetry, limiting cloud exposure, controlling permissions, and enforcing strong physical and network controls significantly improves privacy. Consistent monitoring and operational awareness make these protections effective.

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Software Updates

Purpose: Keep your system hardened, patch vulnerabilities, and stay ahead of adversary tools.

Recommendations:

• Go to System Settings → General → Software Update, set Automatic updates to ON (macOS will install updates automatically).
• Regularly check System Settings → General → Software Update → Advanced… and ensure all relevant toggles (System files & security updates, App updates, macOS Beta updates when applicable) are enabled.
• Update all applications via App Store → Updates and consider checking non-App Store apps manually.
• Uninstall apps you no longer use to reduce the attack surface.

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Apple ID, iCloud & Account Security

Purpose: Your Apple ID is the root of synchronization, backup, device recovery and cloud-services – securing it mitigates large-scale exposure.

Recommendations:

• On your Mac, open System Settings → Apple ID, then Password & Security: enable Two-Factor Authentication.
• Use a strong, unique password for your Apple ID (System Settings → Apple ID → Password & Security → Change Password).
• In System Settings → Apple ID → Devices, review and remove any device you do not recognize or no longer use.
• In System Settings → Apple ID → iCloud, review what is syncing. Consider disabling categories you don’t need and check if Advanced Data Protection is available (for end-to-end encryption).
• If your threat model prioritizes minimal cloud exposure, consider disabling iCloud entirely or limiting it to only necessary services.

User Accounts & Disk Encryption

Purpose: Protecting data at rest and limiting administrative privileges reduces risk of exploitation.

Recommendations:

• Open System Settings → Privacy & Security → FileVault, then enable FileVault full-disk encryption. This ensures the drive is protected if the device is lost or stolen.
• Under System Settings → Users & Groups, create a Standard (non-administrator) user account for everyday tasks; reserve the Admin account for configuration and elevated tasks only.
• In System Settings → Privacy & Security → General, set Require password after sleep or screen saver begins to “Immediately”.
• On Apple Silicon Macs: open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Startup Security, ensure external boot and network boot are disabled unless specifically required.
  

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Application & System Privacy Controls

Purpose: Limiting access of apps to camera, microphone, location, files, network reduces chance of unwanted exposure.

Recommendations:

• In System Settings → Privacy & Security, review each category: Location Services, Camera, Microphone, Files and Folders, Accessibility, Full Disk Access, etc. Set permissions to only those apps that absolutely require them.
• For Location Services: open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → System Services, disable items such as “Significant Locations”, “Networking & Wireless”, “Product Improvement” and “Suggestions” unless you require them.
• For Bluetooth and Local Network: open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth & Local Network, disable access for apps that do not explicitly need it.
• Open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Analytics & Improvements, and disable “Share Mac Analytics”, “Share with App Developers”, and other telemetry options unless the benefit outweighs exposure for your use case.

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Web Browsing & Tracking Mitigation

Purpose: Browsers are a primary attack surface and a major source of third-party tracking and fingerprinting.

Recommendations:

• Use a privacy-focused browser (for example, Firefox or – in Apple’s browser – configure protections).
• In Safari: open Safari → Settings → Privacy, enable Prevent cross-site tracking, disable Allow websites to track me across apps. Consider turning on Fingerprinting protection if available.
• Go to Safari → Settings → Extensions, disable or uninstall unused extensions.
• Clear browsing history and website data regularly (Safari → Settings → Clear History…).
• Consider using a privacy-focused search engine (for example, DuckDuckGo) by opening Safari → Settings → Search Engine → DuckDuckGo.
• For additional control, use an ad/tracker-blocking extension or network-level DNS filtering.
  

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Network & Connectivity Security

Purpose: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, sharing and remote services create exposure when unmanaged.

Recommendations:

• In System Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Options, enable Private Wi-Fi Address and Limit IP Address Tracking when connecting to networks.
• In System Settings → Bluetooth, disable Bluetooth entirely when not needed.
• In System Settings → Network → Firewall, enable the macOS built-in firewall; consider using an application-layer firewall such as LuLu or Little Snitch for outgoing connection monitoring.
• Use a trusted VPN when connecting on untrusted networks; ensure it uses strong protocols (like WireGuard).
• Remove previously used or untrusted Wi-Fi networks: System Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Known Networks → Forget the ones you no longer use.
• Under System Settings → General → Sharing, disable services you don’t need such as File Sharing, Remote Login, AirDrop, unless explicitly required for work.
  

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Physical Security & Device Use

Purpose: Physical compromise remains a key risk — unauthorized access, tampering, hardware ports.

Recommendations:

• In System Settings → Privacy & Security → Lock Screen, set Screen saver begins after a short period of inactivity and require password immediately when the screen saver or sleep begins.
• Consider using a physical webcam cover and/or microphone blocker if you’re in high‐risk environments.
• On Apple Silicon Macs: In System Settings → Privacy & Security → Startup Security, disable external boot and require firmware password or administrator authentication for any changes.
• Consider disabling or limiting USB ports via software controls if used in untrusted environments. When travelling, avoid using untrusted USB charging stations (use a power bank or trusted adapter).
• Keep your Mac under direct control in public or high‐risk settings; use tamper-evident seals or carry tools to detect unexpected peripherals.

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Backup, Encryption & Data Lifecycle

Purpose: Proper backup and data retention strategy ensures recovery and limits long-term exposure of sensitive information.

Recommendations:

• Use Time Machine with an encrypted backup disk: System Settings → General → Time Machine → Select Backup Disk → Encrypt backup disk.
• Consider offline/air-gapped backups for highly sensitive data.
• In System Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → iCloud Drive Options, review what is synced and consider disabling auto-sync of folders you deem sensitive.
• In System Settings → Privacy & Security → Full Disk Access, ensure only approved apps are allowed or disable where possible.
• Periodically review and delete data from unused apps or folders; review Photo metadata before sharing media outside your control.

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Incident Response & Monitoring

Purpose: Know what to do when something goes wrong and monitor your baseline for anomalies.

Recommendations:

• Use Console.app to review macOS system logs, kernel logs and application logs. Compare normal vs unexpected behavior (e.g., new outgoing connections, unknown processes).
• Establish a baseline of typical usage (apps, network connections, system performance) so you can spot abnormal activity.
• If you suspect compromise: disconnect from networks, change key credentials using a trusted device, wipe and restore from a clean image, review sessions and device log-ins tied to your Apple ID.
• Maintain regular backups, test restore procedures, and keep incident-response contacts ready (for example, a trusted IT/security partner).

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High-Risk / Targeted Attacker Profiles

If you are an executive, travel frequently, or face advanced threats:

• Use a dedicated “travel” Mac with minimal apps, locked down configuration and separate user accounts.
• Disable all wireless radios when not needed; use physical killswitches or hardware toggles.
• Employ hardware MFA keys (e.g., YubiKey) for critical accounts, disable biometric unlock and rely on strong alphanumeric passcodes only.
• Consider using a hardened browser sandbox for sensitive tasks and restrict all background services.
• Regularly inspect for hardware tampering, interceptors, keyloggers or unauthorized access peripherals in lodging or travel environments.

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Conclusion

Hardening your Mac is a strategic process, not a one-time checklist. Align your configuration with your threat model, reduce unnecessary exposure, and keep consistent habits. By following the specific setting pathways and rationale above, you’ll establish a strong privacy and security baseline for your macOS machine. Regular review and discipline make the protection effective.

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Signal is widely regarded as one of the most secure messaging apps available today, offering end-to-end encryption, minimal data retention, and strong privacy protections. However, to get the maximum benefit, users should take a few minutes to configure the app’s privacy and security settings. The screenshots you provided illustrate key areas inside Signal’s settings menu, and this guide will walk through each one, explaining what the options mean and how to optimize them.

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Signal PIN and Account Security

Signal uses a private PIN to protect profile data, settings, and identity information. This PIN is never shared and cannot be recovered by Signal, so choosing one that is memorable yet strong is essential.

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Key recommendations:

• Enable Signal PIN and use a 6 digit pin.
• Turn on Registration Lock to prevent someone else from registering your number on another device without the PIN.

These features ensure that even if someone gains access to your phone number, they cannot take over your Signal account.

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Phone Number Privacy

Signal allows you to choose who can view your phone number and who can find you by searching for your number—an important control for limiting contact from unknown individuals.

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–

Recommended settings:

• Set “Who Can See My Number” to Nobody.
• Set “Who Can Find Me By Number” to Everybody only if you rely on coworkers or clients finding you. Otherwise, choose Nobody for maximum privacy.

This approach ensures your number won’t be exposed to users who do not already have it saved.

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General Privacy Settings

Signal includes a variety of privacy-related toggles that allow you to control read receipts, typing indicators, and message disappearance timers.

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–

What to configure:

• Disable Read Receipts and Typing Indicators if you prefer not to share usage behavior.
• Set a default disappearing message timer. Four weeks is common, but consider shorter intervals for sensitive conversations.
• Review your blocked contacts list periodically.

These settings reduce digital traces and prevent others from monitoring when or how you use the app.

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App Security Features

Beyond messaging privacy, Signal includes app-level security options such as Face ID/biometric lock and hiding the app screen in the app switcher.

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Recommended configuration:

• Enable “Hide Screen in App Switcher” to prevent message previews from appearing in multitasking view.
• Use screen lock if your device does not have a feature to require biometric protection to open the app, like an iPhone.
• Turn on Payments Lock if you use Signal Payments.

These features prevent unauthorized access to your conversations if someone temporarily handles your device.

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Advanced Protections

Signal’s advanced settings offer additional layers of protection, especially for users who prioritize anonymity.

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Key options:

• Enable “Always Relay Calls” to hide your IP address from call recipients.
• Enable “Sealed Sender” status icon to verify that messages use Signal’s most private delivery method.
• Leave “Allow from Anyone” off unless you want to accept sealed-sender messages from people who are not already connected to you.
• Proxy settings can be used in regions where Signal is blocked, though not needed in most cases.

These advanced options help shield metadata and reduce exposure during calls and message delivery.

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Conclusion

Configuring Signal properly ensures that you benefit from its strongest privacy protections. The app provides granular control over your visibility, data retention, and communication security—controls that most messaging platforms do not offer. By following the recommendations above and using the screenshots as guidance, you can tailor Signal to match your personal privacy needs.

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Even the best setups generate metadata, can be tracked at the network layer, and are only as strong as your lock screen, update discipline, and operational habits.

The Landscape

Most privacy-minded users today cluster around three paths. The first is hardened Android on modern Google Pixel hardware, with GrapheneOS as the flagship option thanks to additional exploit mitigations, verified boot, hardware attestation, and unusually granular controls over sensors, storage, and networking. Several companies package this approach for people who prefer not to DIY: Nitrokey’s NitroPhone and Above Phone ship Pixel hardware with a hardened OS and a curated app and service bundle. Spicy Corp’s SovereignOS follows a similar model for enterprise deployments, building on the GrapheneOS foundation.

A second path revolves around Linux phones. Purism’s Librem 5 and Liberty run PureOS and add physical kill switches for the modem, cameras, and microphone. Ubuntu Touch (UBports), Sailfish OS, and Volla OS target freedom and transparency first, accepting tradeoffs in app availability and polish. These devices are excellent for research and specialized workflows but require comfort with tinkering and a tolerance for gaps in mainstream applications.

The third path is enterprise hardware and managed communications. Bittium’s Tough Mobile 2 and 2 C pair a hardened Android stack with enterprise controls, including dual-boot segregation on the 2 C. Managed providers such as Glacier Security deliver end-to-end device provisioning, policy enforcement, and encrypted communications as a subscription. At the edges of the market, you’ll also find boutique “privacy” brands like Unplugged’s UP Phone and service-heavy offerings like Zero Trace. Their positioning varies; what matters is transparent documentation, a credible update pipeline, and the ability to verify what’s running on the device. Classic niche options such as the GSMK CryptoPhone add features like a baseband firewall for specialized needs.

Carrier and number hygiene matter too. Services like Efani market SIM-swap resistance and reduced data collection, useful for high-risk people who cannot afford a number takeover. These services do not change the fundamentals of cellular metadata, but they can harden weak links in your account lifecycle.

Picking the Right Path

For everyday privacy with mainstream app compatibility, a recent Pixel with GrapheneOS offers a strong balance of security hardening, timely patches, and fine-grained controls. Buying new hardware from reputable sources, installing correctly, and relocking the bootloader keeps verified boot intact. Those who want the benefits without the installation steps can opt for preconfigured Pixels from vendors like Nitrokey or Above Phone, then verify the installation using hardware attestation.

In regulated or enterprise settings, device control and compliance often trump customization. Bittium’s Tough Mobile line and managed stacks such as Glacier Security are designed for central policy management, fleet visibility, and secure communications with administrative oversight.

If your priority is openness and hardware control, Linux phones like the Librem 5 or Ubuntu Touch devices provide a learning-friendly, research-friendly environment with physical kill switches and transparent software. The tradeoff is a thinner app ecosystem and more hands-on maintenance.

Finally, approach boutique “privacy phones” with the same rigor you would apply to any security product. Demand clear documentation, explicit support timelines, a demonstrated update cadence, and the ability to relock the bootloader and preserve verified boot. Marketing language should never substitute for verifiable security properties.

How to Use These Devices Correctly

Start with the foundation: preserve verified boot and keep the bootloader locked. After installation, relock the bootloader and disable OEM unlocking so the device resists tampering and rollback attacks. If someone gets physical access, this layer often makes the difference between a scare and a compromise that persists across reboots.

Prove what is running on your phone. GrapheneOS provides an Auditor app and remote attestation flow that lets you verify the OS state, boot key, and patch level. This is especially valuable if you purchased a preconfigured device or operate in high-risk environments where supply-chain or “evil-maid” attacks are realistic.

Update ruthlessly. Treat OS and app updates like a seatbelt: routine, non-negotiable, and the simplest way to close real-world holes. Configure the device so updates install promptly, and avoid ROMs that are past end-of-life. If a project is discontinued, migrate; security is a moving target.

Lock the front door with a resilient screen lock and a power-off habit. On modern Pixels, the secure element enforces strong throttling on passcode guesses. A random six-digit PIN is reasonable for many; higher-risk users should consider a longer passphrase. Enable automatic reboot after inactivity so the device regularly returns to the safer “before-first-unlock” state.

Minimize app privileges. On GrapheneOS, use Storage Scopes and Contact Scopes to avoid giving apps broad access to files or address books. Revoke network access for apps that do not need the internet and cut off sensors where possible. The goal is to limit the blast radius if an app is compromised or overly curious.

Separate identities and tasks. User profiles behave like separate workstations that happen to share a modem. Keep work, personal, and travel data in distinct profiles to reduce cross-contamination of permissions, cookies, and identifiers. For particularly sensitive trips, a clean travel profile or even a separate device is often the wisest path.

Harden radios and network behavior. Disable 2G to prevent easy network downgrades and reduce exposure to legacy protocols. Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth scanning when not needed and keep MAC randomization enabled. Assume that cell-site simulators exist at major events; good radio hygiene reduces passive exposure.

Keep your expectations straight about VPNs. A VPN changes who can see your traffic; it does not erase metadata or make you anonymous. Use a VPN for specific reasons like protecting against local network eavesdropping or exiting via another country. When you need stronger anonymity or censorship resistance, use Tor Browser for Android instead of treating a VPN as a cure-all.

Move critical accounts away from SMS-based two-factor authentication. Adopt phishing-resistant methods such as FIDO2/WebAuthn hardware keys. If you must keep SMS for legacy services, add port-out PINs and consider carriers or MVNOs with robust SIM-swap defenses.

Use secure messaging correctly. Signal now supports usernames so you can hide your phone number from new contacts. Turn on registration lock, verify safety numbers for sensitive conversations, and apply disappearing messages thoughtfully to limit long-term exposure of chat histories.

Plan for borders and seizures. Power devices off before crossing, keep only what you need on the phone, and understand the authorities that border agents may have in your jurisdiction. A minimalist travel profile—or a dedicated travel phone—simplifies decisions when time and pressure are high.

Buy hardware wisely. Prefer new, carrier-unlocked Pixels from first-party or reputable channels. Avoid second-hand devices with unknown histories. If you purchase a preconfigured phone, verify its integrity using hardware attestation and confirm the key hash displayed at boot.

Common Ways People Break Their Own Privacy

The most frequent self-inflicted wounds are simple: leaving the bootloader unlocked after flashing, granting broad permissions because an app “won’t run otherwise,” relying on SMS for high-value accounts, believing a VPN makes you anonymous, or staying on an unmaintained ROM months after security updates stop. None of these mistakes require an advanced adversary to exploit; ordinary criminals and automated scams routinely benefit from them.

Bottom Line

Devices and operating systems matter—a lot. GrapheneOS on a Pixel, Bittium’s enterprise phones, Librem’s Linux hardware with kill switches, managed offerings like Glacier Security, and even boutique services all have legitimate use cases. But no phone is private by default. The way you configure it, the discipline with which you update it, and the habits you keep are what make it private enough for your work and life.

References

https://grapheneos.org/features

https://grapheneos.org/usage

https://grapheneos.org/install/web

https://attestation.app/tutorial

https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/mobile-communications-best-practice-guidance

https://media.defense.gov/2021/Sep/16/2002855921/-1/-1/0/MOBILE_DEVICE_BEST_PRACTICES_FINAL_V3%20-%20COPY.PDF

https://source.android.com/docs/security/features/cellular-security/disable-2g

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2023/09/apple-and-google-are-introducing-new-ways-defeat-cell-site-simulators-it-enough

https://www.wired.com/story/2024-dnc-cell-site-simulator-phone-surveillance

https://source.android.com/docs/core/connect/wifi-mac-randomization-behavior

https://support.google.com/android/answer/3467281

https://mullvad.net/en/vpn/trustworthy-vpn

https://support.torproject.org/tormobile/

https://ssd.eff.org/module/how-to-use-tor-on-android-and-iphone

https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/publications/fact-sheet-implementing-phishing-resistant-mfa-508c.pdf

https://signal.org/blog/phone-number-privacy-usernames/

https://support.signal.org/hc/en-us/articles/360007059792-Signal-PIN

https://support.signal.org/hc/en-us/articles/360007060632-What-is-a-safety-number-and-why-do-I-see-that-it-changed

https://www.theverge.com/news/648757/google-android-update-automatic-reboot-phone-locked

https://calyxos.org/features/list/

https://calyxos.org/docs/

https://copperhead.co/android/

https://www.ubuntu-touch.io/

https://volla.online/en/operating-systems/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DivestOS

https://shop.nitrokey.com/shop/nitrophone-4-pro-576

https://www.bittium.com/defense-security/bittium-tough-mobile-2-c/

https://www.bittium.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Datasheet-Bittium-Tough-Mobile-2-C-1.pdf

https://puri.sm/products/librem-5/

https://puri.sm/posts/librem-5-device-overview/

https://www.cryptophone.de/technology

https://www.cryptophone.de/products/CP700

https://unplugged.com/products/up-phone

https://zerotrace.org/product/zerotracephone/

https://spicycorp.com/2025/08/08/building-sovereign-os-why-we-chose-grapheneos-over-aosp/

https://glacier.chat/

https://www.eff.org/wp/digital-privacy-us-border-2017

https://www.eff.org/issues/border-searches

https://www.cbp.gov/travel/cbp-search-authority/border-search-electronic-devices

Below is a comprehensive overview of the most common spy apps in 2025, their capabilities, how they are installed (with or without rooting/jailbreaking), and detailed steps to detect and remove them on both Android and iOS devices.

Popular Spyware Apps in 2025 and Their Capabilities

Note: These apps typically run in stealth, hiding their icon and disguising themselves as system services. They can harvest a wide range of personal data from the target device.

Cross-Platform Spy Apps (Android & iPhone)

• mSpy:
  One of the best-known spyware brands, mSpy is marketed for parental control but widely misused for spying. It logs call history, text messages, emails, and browsing history, tracks GPS location, and monitors popular social media and chat apps (WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, etc.). mSpy can even record keystrokes on the device and take periodic screenshots. On iPhones it offers a “no-jailbreak” option by using the target’s iCloud backups (no software on the phone), while full features on a jailbroken iPhone or rooted Android include real-time monitoring of apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat. It runs hidden in the background (no home screen icon) and continuously syncs data to an online dashboard for the person spying.
• FlexiSPY:
  A highly invasive spy app that bills itself as “the world’s most powerful” monitoring software. FlexiSPY can intercept and record live phone calls (unique among spy apps), monitor all communications (calls, SMS, emails, chats) on the device, activate the microphone for ambient listening, track GPS location, log keystrokes, and steal photos/videos. It effectively takes complete remote control of the phone or tablet. FlexiSPY is 100% hidden and requires the device to be rooted (Android) or jailbroken (iPhone) for installation. Once installed, it runs at a deep system level – security firms have labeled FlexiSPY as malware given its ability to steal data and remotely control devices without user knowledge.
• Spyera:
  Another full-featured spyware app similar to FlexiSPY. Spyera works on Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, providing call tapping and recording, ambient listening via microphone, keylogging, GPS tracking, and monitoring of texts, emails, and IM chats. It can even secretly record the phone’s surroundings and upload the audio. Spyera runs in stealth mode and typically requires rooting or jailbreaking for the most advanced features. Note: Many users report unreliable performance and poor support for Spyera despite its broad capabilities.
• XNSpy:
  An espionage app often promoted for employee monitoring, but also used in stalkerware incidents. XNSpy offers GPS location tracking, call logging, reading of SMS and messenger chats, access to contacts and media, and even remote microphone activation. It can monitor social media apps and record keystrokes as well. XNSpy is available for both Android and iPhone; full surveillance features may require rooting/jailbreaking, although it also leverages accessibility services on standard Android installs. Researchers frequently flag XNSpy in stalkerware reports due to its invasive capabilities.
• uMobix:
  A newer entrant known for deep device access. uMobix supports Android and iOS, claiming to monitor nearly all device activities in real time – including calls, texts, chat apps, location, photos, and more. On Android it can leverage accessibility to capture social media chats and even live screen streaming, while on iPhone it uses iCloud backup syncing (no jailbreak needed) for a subset of data. uMobix runs hidden and does not require root for basic features, though some advanced functions (like certain messenger logs or camera activation) may only work on rooted devices. It is marketed for parental use but effectively functions as spyware with full stealth.
• eyeZy:
  A cross-platform spy app advertised as a “next generation” phone tracker. eyeZy can track SMS, call logs, emails, GPS location, web browsing, and messages on apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Snapchat, etc.. It also includes a keylogger to capture everything typed. In practice, eyeZy’s capabilities are robust on paper – however, tests have found that many advertised features may not work reliably. It operates hidden on the device. eyeZy does not strictly require root/jailbreak for installation; on Android it uses the usual trick of abusing permissions (accessibility, device admin) to gather data without root.
• Cocospy and Spyic:
  Cocospy (and its close variant Spyic) are popular mobile spyware apps that offer remote monitoring of calls, texts, contacts, browser history, and messaging apps. They are slightly less comprehensive than the top-tier spy apps – for example, Cocospy can monitor WhatsApp messages, call logs and set GPS geofence alerts, but it lacks more extreme features like call interception or ambient recording. These apps emphasize ease of use and stealth. They typically do not require rooting; instead they ask for broad permissions on Android, or iCloud credentials for iPhone monitoring. Cocospy/Spyic run hidden and are often sideloaded (since they aren’t in official app stores).
• Highster Mobile:
  An older but still-active spy app that works on Android and iPhone. Highster Mobile enables remote access to texts, call logs, GPS location, photos, and more on the target device. It advertises support for monitoring social media and messaging apps as well. Notably, Highster requires a rooted Android for installation (which both voids the warranty and increases the risk of detection). Users have reported that Highster often fails to perform as advertised, with many features not functioning and poor customer support. Nevertheless, if successfully installed, it operates covertly to harvest data.
• KidsGuard Pro (by ClevGuard):
  A commercial “parental control” app with versions for Android and iOS. KidsGuard Pro can track call history, SMS, live GPS location, and even record the device’s screen. It monitors popular chat apps (WhatsApp, WeChat, Snapchat, etc.) and can set keyword alerts (notifying the spy if the user types or receives certain words). On Android, KidsGuard abuses the Accessibility service to capture keystrokes and messages (it was caught masquerading as a “Device Health” service in settings). On iOS, KidsGuard’s capabilities are more limited (relying on iCloud syncing of logs). It runs in stealth, and does not require root or jailbreak for its basic monitoring, making it a favored tool for non-technical spies.
• SpyBubble:
  An espionage app that explicitly markets itself for catching a cheating spouse. SpyBubble claims to track SMS, emails, phone call logs, and even encrypted messengers like Signal. It also offers remote device control features – for instance, the ability to block certain contacts or apps on the target phone. SpyBubble runs hidden and supports both Android and iPhone (with iCloud-based monitoring on iOS). Its feature set includes location tracking and possibly ambient recording, though like many such apps its reliability is questionable. SpyBubble’s promotion of spying on partners without consent is illegal in many regions, highlighting its intended (abusive) use-case.
• iKeyMonitor:
  A specialized spyware app known primarily for its keylogging abilities. iKeyMonitor works on jailbroken iPhones and on Android devices, capturing every keystroke typed (including passwords, messages, search queries). In addition, it can log SMS, call details, GPS location and take periodic screenshots. On Android it may also record calls or surroundings. iKeyMonitor often operates as a hidden keylogger that users deploy to secretly record everything typed on the phone. It requires root (Android) or jailbreak (iOS) to unlock its full set of features (especially on iOS, where it’s one of the few keylogger options). Once installed, it hides in the background and sends logs to the abuser’s account.
• Other notable mentions:
  Spyzie (a once-popular spy app, now largely discontinued or rebranded), Hoverwatch (an Android/Windows/Mac spyware that records calls, texts, camera photos, and tracks virtually all messaging apps), and Bark/Qustodio/Life360 (legitimate family safety apps that can be misused for stalking). Additionally, some spyware is sold under different names or white-label brands; many have overlapping capabilities. All of these tools aim to remain invisible and collect as much private data as possible from the device.

Android-Only Spy Apps and Tools

• TheTruthSpy (and variants):
  TheTruthSpy is a free Android spy app that offers many features of paid spyware. It can track GPS location, record calls, read text messages, and monitor certain chat apps like Viber or Snapchat. It runs stealthily and has been circulated on various hacker forums. TheTruthSpy gained notoriety in 2022 when a serious vulnerability exposed its entire customer data stash to hackers – underscoring the risk of these apps leaking stolen data. (Related clones include Copy9 and others, which are essentially repackaged versions of TheTruthSpy.) Installation typically requires enabling “Unknown Sources” on the Android device and granting extensive permissions.
• AndroidLost:
• Originally an anti-theft app, AndroidLost has been repurposed as spyware because of its powerful remote control features. Once installed on an Android phone, it can read all SMS messages and remotely control the device – for example, it can secretly take photos with the camera, send spoofed messages, forward calls, and more. It essentially allows a stalker to issue commands to the phone as if they had it in hand. AndroidLost used to be on Google Play but was removed due to abuse concerns. It must now be sideloaded and hidden manually.
• TrackView:
  TrackView is a phone app that turns a device into a remote surveillance camera and GPS tracker. It is designed for family tracking (available even on Play Store), but when misused it becomes covert spyware. With TrackView, an abuser can remotely access the phone’s microphone and cameras to spy on surroundings in real time, track the phone’s location, and get motion or sound alerts. Kaspersky reported that TrackView was the most commonly detected mobile spy tool worldwide in 2023, involved in thousands of stalkerware incidents. While it lacks keylogging or text interception, TrackView’s ease of use and legitimate veneer make it popular among non-technical spies.
• Cerberus:
  Cerberus is another app originally meant for phone anti-theft, but flagged in stalkerware statistics. If installed with the right options, Cerberus hides on the device and allows remote control via web or SMS commands. An abuser can track GPS location, grab call logs, SMS, and even record audio or take pictures using Cerberus. It requires manual installation (it’s no longer in app stores) and often needs device admin privileges. Cerberus exemplifies how apps that don’t explicitly market as “spy apps” can still be used for covert surveillance.
• Reptilicus:
  A spy app prevalent in some regions (the name suggests Russian origin), Reptilicus is frequently detected in the wild. It operates only on Android and offers the usual array: intercepting texts, call audio recording, live GPS tracking, access to photos, and even recording ambient sound. Reptilicus often spreads via illicit marketplaces. Like others, it hides its icon and runs at startup to ensure continuous spying. Security reports listed “Reptilic” (Reptilicus) among the top five stalkerware apps globally by usage.

(The above lists are not exhaustive – there are dozens of such apps in circulation. However, the apps named are among the most common and active in 2025 for spying on mobile devices.)

Installation Methods: Rooted/Jailbroken vs. Non-Root Surveillance

Surveillance apps often require elevated device access to fully spy on someone. Many of the advanced capabilities (recording calls, reading other apps’ messages, keylogging, etc.) only work if the attacker can bypass the built-in security of the OS. This is typically done in one of two ways:

• Rooting (Android) or Jailbreaking (iPhone):
  This is the process of removing the operating system’s security restrictions. Spy apps like FlexiSPY and Spyera explicitly state that you must root or jailbreak the device to install them or unlock their most powerful features. A rooted/jailbroken phone allows the spyware to gain deep system privileges, meaning it can hook into calls, intercept messaging databases, and remain more hidden (sometimes even persisting across factory resets in extreme cases). Example: On a jailbroken iPhone, an app can run continuously in the background and hide from the app list, which would be impossible under Apple’s normal sandbox. Jailbreaking an iPhone or rooting an Android greatly expands what spyware can do – but it also leaves more evidence (the device shows signs of being tampered, and advanced security tools can detect this state).
• Non-Root (Standard) Installation:
  Many modern stalkerware apps have adapted to work on non-rooted Android devices by abusing legitimate permission features. On Android, this often means exploiting Accessibility Services and the device admin APIs to gain broad access without true root. For example, the spyware will prompt for accessibility permissions, which allow it to read screen content and keystrokes (capturing messages from other apps). It might also request to be a Device Admin app, preventing easy uninstallation and enabling remote control capabilities. While not as powerful as root access, this method still lets the spyware log a lot of data (notifications, texts, call logs, etc.) with fewer installation hurdles. On iOS (iPhones without jailbreak), spyware cannot be installed as an invisible app due to Apple’s restrictions. Instead, “no-jailbreak” iPhone spyware relies on cloud backups – the attacker must know the target’s iCloud credentials, then the spyware service pulls down iCloud backup data (messages, photos, contacts, etc.) periodically. Another non-jailbreak iOS method is abusing Apple’s Mobile Device Management: an abuser with brief access to the phone could install an MDM configuration profile that grants remote monitoring of some aspects (like location and app usage). However, non-jailbroken iPhone monitoring is far more limited than on a jailbroken device – typically only providing indirect access to synced data, not real-time spying.

In summary, root/jailbreak yields the most invasive spying (at the cost of a more complex install), whereas non-root methods rely on social engineering (getting the victim to accept a malicious profile or permissions) and have slightly reduced capabilities. Many spyware vendors offer both options: e.g. mSpy lets you choose between a full-install (requiring jailbreak) or a limited no-jailbreak/iCloud version. Regardless of method, the spyware installer almost always needs physical access to the phone for a few minutes to sideload the app or configure the device (remote installation is rare, though phishing-based methods exist in theory).

Detecting Spy Apps on Android Devices

Despite their stealth, spyware apps can often be uncovered with careful inspection. If you suspect your Android phone is being spied on, use the following technical methods to detect hidden spy apps:

• Unusual Battery or Performance Signs:
  If your phone is running warmer than usual, lagging, or the battery is draining abnormally fast, it could indicate a spyware app working in the background. Constant GPS tracking, audio recording, or data transmission by stalkerware will consume extra battery and CPU. Check Settings > Battery to see if any unknown app or service shows significant usage. Similarly, monitor your data usage – many spy apps upload large amounts of data; unexplained spikes in mobile data (hundreds of MB or more) could be a red flag.
• Presence of Strange or Disguised Apps:
  Spyware often masquerades under innocent names like “System Service”, “Device Health”, or “Security Settings” to avoid suspicion. Go to Settings > Apps (or App Manager) and review the full list of installed applications (including system apps). Look for anything you don’t recognize or that sounds oddly generic. For example, an app simply named “Accessibility” or “Device Admin” should not normally be present. In Android settings, scrolling to the bottom of the app list may show custom-installed apps. If an app has no icon or uses a very generic icon and name, investigate it. (You can also use ADB or specialized tools to list all installed packages, if you are technically inclined.) Any unfamiliar app is cause for concern – Google it or compare it against known spyware names (see the list above). If confirmed malicious, plan to remove it (as described in the removal section below).
• Check Accessibility Services:
  Since many stalker apps abuse Android’s Accessibility Service, check Settings > Accessibility > Installed Services. If you are not actively using any accessibility app (screen reader, etc.), this list should ideally be empty. Disable any service that you did not enable yourself, especially those with vague names. For instance, seeing “KidsGuard” or “System Service” listed as an accessibility service is a strong indicator of spyware. Turning it off will stop the app from snooping via accessibility (though the app may attempt to persuade the user to re-enable it through fake warnings).
• Check Notification Access:
  Similarly, go to Settings > Apps > Special App Access > Notification Access. See if any unknown apps have permission to read your notifications. Spyware often requests notification access to capture incoming messages and alerts from other apps. In this menu, you might spot a fake “Service” that is allowed to read notifications. Revoke notification access for any suspicious entry. Normally, only apps like Android Auto or wearable device apps might legitimately appear here – a random service should not.
• Device Admin Apps:
  Some Android spyware installs itself with Device Administrator privileges to prevent easy removal and gain deeper control. Check Settings > Security > Device Admin Apps (the menu might be under “More security settings” on newer phones). If you see an admin app that you don’t recognize or that shouldn’t be there (e.g. an app called “System Update” or “Security Service” that isn’t from Google), that is likely the spy app. Disable (deactivate) the admin permission for it. Most regular users will have zero apps in this list (or just Google’s Find My Device). Any extra entry is suspicious.
• Hidden Apps in App Drawer:
  Some spyware hides its icon from the home screen launcher. However, you can go into the App Drawer or App Library and enable viewing of all apps, or use the Settings > Apps list as mentioned. Certain phone models also allow searching for apps in settings by name. If you know specific spyware names, try searching your device for terms like “spy”, “monitor”, “stealth” or known app names (“Flexi”, “mSpy”, etc.). Keep in mind the app may use a different name to hide (for example, TheTruthSpy might install under the package name “fm.sketch” or similar). If nothing obvious is found but suspicion remains high, consider using an anti-malware scanner (see below).
• Unusual Permissions and Behaviors:
  Even if you can’t see a rogue app directly, there are clues. Check Settings > Privacy > Permissions Manager (or on older Android, Settings > Apps > [app name] > Permissions) for any oddities. If a system-sounding app has access to your SMS, microphone, camera, location, contacts, or storage, that’s a red flag. For instance, a fake “Device Health” app with permission to track your location or record audio is certainly malicious. You may also notice the device staying active (screen waking up briefly) at odd times, or hear background noises during calls (if calls are being recorded or intercepted). These subtle signs should prompt a closer look.
• Security Scans:
  Use a reputable mobile security app that specifically detects stalkerware. Many antivirus apps now flag common spyware signatures (often labeled as “Monitor” or “Not-a-Virus” threats). For example, apps like Kaspersky, Malwarebytes, Certo, or Incognito Anti-Spy can scan your device for known spyware fingerprints. Ensure Google Play Protect is enabled as well, as it can sometimes warn about known harmful apps. Note: If you believe your safety could be compromised by a partner discovering you ran a scan or found spyware, proceed carefully (have a safety plan). But technically, these tools can help confirm the presence of a spy app.

Detecting Spy Apps on iPhone (iOS) Devices

Apple’s iOS has a more locked-down ecosystem, making spyware harder to install – but not impossible. If you suspect an iPhone is being monitored, perform the following checks. Many are aimed at revealing signs of jailbreak or configuration profiles that enable spyware, since outright spyware apps can’t run on a non-jailbroken iPhone without leaving traces.

• Look for Unfamiliar Apps or Icons:
  On a normal (non-jailbroken) iPhone, any spyware must either be using an Apple-provided method (like an MDM profile) or be a hidden app using enterprise certificates. Go through your App Library and home screens to see all installed apps. If you see an app you don’t remember installing (especially with a nondescript name like “Wifi” or a random utility), investigate it. Also check Settings, scroll down to where third-party apps are listed; every installed app (even hidden ones) should appear there for settings. If something is present that you cannot identify, that could be the spy tool. Note: On jailbroken devices, spyware may hide its icon entirely. But you might still see clues in Settings or the iPhone Storage list. Any completely unknown app should be considered suspicious.
• Battery and Data Usage Anomalies:
  Similar to Android, an iPhone constantly running spyware might have significant battery drain or data usage. Check Settings > Battery for unusual activity – if an app or process with no name (or a strange name) shows high background activity, that’s a warning sign. Likewise, in Settings > Cellular (Mobile Data), review the data usage by app. Spyware might try to hide by not showing a name here, but total data consumption could be high. If your monthly data usage seems far higher than expected and you can’t attribute it, spying could be a cause (especially if large chunks of data are uploaded when you’re not using the phone).
• Privacy Permissions Check:
  iOS lets you see which apps have access to sensitive sensors. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security and inspect categories like Location Services, Camera, Microphone. If you spot an unfamiliar app in the list that has access to your location “Always” or uses the mic/camera, that is a huge red flag. For example, if “(Unknown)” or some odd app is listed as having camera access, spyware could be using it to spy. You should revoke any suspect permissions (set to “Never” for location, or toggle off camera/mic). While this won’t remove the spyware, it can cripple some of its functions until you can fully remove it.
• Apple ID/iCloud Security Alerts:
  Many iPhone spyware solutions rely on iCloud access rather than an on-device app. If someone has your Apple ID credentials, they might be receiving your data remotely. Apple will sometimes send emails or push notifications about new sign-ins to your iCloud or device backups being accessed. Check your iCloud account email for any notices of logins that weren’t you. Also, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security, and see the list of devices on your Apple ID. If there’s a device you don’t recognize, someone might have added their hardware to your account to sync your data. Unlink any unknown devices. Suspicious login alerts from Apple (especially referencing locations or devices that are not yours) are a strong indicator that your iCloud is compromised.
• Signs of Jailbreaking:
  Because installing true spyware on iOS almost always requires a jailbreak, check if the device is jailbroken. The obvious tell is the presence of apps like Cydia, Sileo, or Installer – these are unofficial app store apps used on jailbroken iPhones. Use the iOS search (swipe down on home screen) to search for “Cydia” or “Sileo” by name. If you find them (not as web results, but as an actual app), the iPhone is jailbroken, which means spyware could be deeply implanted. Even if those aren’t visible, other jailbreak hints include unusual behavior like apps that shouldn’t be allowed (e.g. a theming app), or the ability to see a file system browser on the device. If you suspect a jailbreak, that alone is cause for alarm – an iPhone should not be jailbroken without the owner’s knowledge, and it likely means spyware or unauthorized apps are installed.
• Check for Configuration Profiles / MDM:
  Navigate to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management (on some iOS versions it might say “Profiles & Device Management”). If your device is not supposed to be managed by any organization, you normally should not see any profile installed. If you do see a Configuration Profile or Mobile Device Management profile listed that you didn’t install yourself, this could be a spy configuration. Spyware like Spyine or others have been known to use MDM profiles to gain access under the guise of a corporate device management. Tap on any listed profile to view details – if it’s not something you recognize (like your workplace or school), that’s a sign of compromise. The profile could allow the installer to remotely track location, install apps, or enforce settings without your consent.
• iTunes Wi-Fi Sync Abuse:
  Some desktop-based iPhone spyware (e.g. certain variants of mSpy/Highster) have abused the iTunes Wi-Fi Sync feature to constantly fetch device backups. Check on your iPhone under Settings > General > iTunes Wi-Fi Sync (this appears if your phone has been set to sync with a computer). If you see a computer name that you don’t recognize authorized for Wi-Fi Sync, that means at one point your iPhone was connected and set to sync to that computer’s iTunes over Wi-Fi. An attacker could use this to automatically receive your phone’s backups (which include messages, call logs, etc.). If something is listed there that shouldn’t be, you can remove/disable it by connecting your iPhone to iTunes/Finder on a trusted computer and turning off Wi-Fi sync for all devices. In general, if you’re not intentionally using Wi-Fi Sync, there should be no such entry visible.
• General Device Behavior:
  Keep an eye out for other abnormal behaviors. Does the screen light up for no reason or show weird flickers (a sign of remote screenshot or camera activation)? Do you hear background noises during calls, or do calls drop unexpectedly (possible interception attempts)? Also, if the phone is overheating while idle, or you find new entries in your Safari history (some spyware might momentarily open browser for certain tasks), these indirect hints can further support your suspicions. Apple has a “Safety Check” feature (in iOS 16+) under Privacy > Safety Check, which is designed to quickly review and reset sharing access – running this can disable sharing of your location or data with any third-parties, which is useful if an abuser set up Find My or shared calendars/notes to spy on you.
• Use a Mobile Security Scanner:
  While iOS doesn’t allow traditional antivirus apps to scan the system, there are security tools like Certo iPhone, iMazing (desktop software), or Clario Anti-Spy that can check for known indicators of compromise. For example, iMazing’s 2025 update includes enhanced spyware detection by analyzing an iPhone backup for traces of stalkerware or Pegasus-like spyware. These can detect jailbreaks, suspicious profiles, or known malicious files. Running such a scan can be helpful if you have access to a computer. Keep in mind these tools might cost money or require connecting your phone to a PC/Mac, but they provide an extra layer of confirmation.

Removing or Disabling Spyware Apps on Android

Once you have identified (or strongly suspect) a spyware app on your Android device, you should remove it carefully. Important: Removing the app will likely immediately stop the data flow to the spy, but it may also alert the perpetrator (many spyware dashboards will show the device as offline). Consider your personal safety before removal – if you’re in an unsafe situation, you might want to consult authorities or a support organization first. Assuming it’s safe to proceed, here are the steps:

1. Prepare for Removal:
   If possible, disconnect from the internet (turn on airplane mode) before removing the app – this can prevent the spyware from sending a final alert to the controller. You should also enable Google Play Protect (in the Play Store menu > Play Protect) and run a scan. Play Protect or a third-party security app might identify the stalkerware by name and give an option to uninstall. Additionally, it’s wise to take screenshots or notes of the suspicious app’s presence (for evidence) before deletion, if you plan to report it.
2. Revoke Administrator Rights:
   If the spyware was set as a Device Admin, you must remove that privilege first. Go to Settings > Security > Device Admin Apps, find the suspect app, and tap Deactivate or Remove admin. This will prevent the app from blocking uninstallation. If you cannot uncheck it because the option is grayed out, try booting into Safe Mode (most Androids enter safe mode by holding the power off option, which disables third-party apps temporarily). In safe mode, you should be able to revoke the admin setting.
3. Force Stop and Uninstall:
   Next, go to Settings > Apps (or Apps & Notifications) and locate the spyware app. It might be under its fake name (e.g. “System Service”). Tap it, choose Force Stop (to ensure it’s not running), then tap Uninstall. In some cases, the uninstall button might be hidden or the app might have attempted to gain “Install unknown apps” permission to reinfect – but simply pressing uninstall should remove it if admin rights were cleared. If it asks for any confirmation, proceed. Once uninstalled, reboot the phone.
4. Check for Residual Files/Apps:
   After reboot, double-check the areas from the detection phase. Ensure it’s gone from the Apps list, Accessibility, notification access, etc. Occasionally, spyware can install a secondary component or scheduler. Look for any other odd apps that appeared around the same time. If found, remove those as well. It’s also a good idea to clear your download folder or any APK files that might be the installer, so it can’t be accidentally reinstalled.
5. Update Phone’s OS and Google Services:
   It’s wise to update your Android OS to the latest version after removal. This patches any known vulnerabilities that spyware might have exploited to gain persistence. Also update all your apps from the Play Store. This ensures you have the latest security fixes (and if the device was rooted without your knowledge, updating may un-root or close that breach).
6. Password Hygiene:
   Because spyware could have recorded your keystrokes or passwords, change the passwords to your important accounts (Google account, email, banking, social media) after removal. Do this from a clean device if possible. Also enable two-factor authentication to prevent the spy from regaining access. Check your Google account’s device/activity logs for any unknown logins just in case.
7. Factory Reset as Last Resort:
   If removal proves difficult (for example, you can’t find the app but strongly suspect it’s there, or it immediately reinstalls itself), a full Factory Reset will wipe the phone. This will remove any spyware for sure. Backup your important data first (but do not simply re-import all apps from a potentially infected backup). After the reset, set up the phone as new and be cautious with what you restore. This is a drastic step but guarantees the phone is clean. Keep in mind, if the phone was rooted, factory resetting might not remove root; you may need to re-flash the official firmware to fully secure the device.
8. Post-Removal Monitoring:
   After you believe it’s gone, stay vigilant. Notice if battery life improves and data usage drops back to normal – it should if the spyware was the culprit. Continue to periodically check the settings we discussed (accessibility, etc.) to ensure nothing sneaks back. And of course, secure access to your device: use a strong PIN/password or biometric lock so an adversary cannot easily reinstall spyware.

(If you removed a spyware app, you may consider keeping some form of anti-spyware app on your phone for a while. Apps like Certo Mobile Security or Kaspersky Mobile can run in the background to alert if known spyware is reinstalled. Just be aware of the risk that the person who planted the spyware may realize it’s gone – have a safety plan in case of any escalation in real life.)

Removing or Disabling Spyware on iPhone (iOS)

Removing spyware from an iPhone largely centers on securing your Apple account and undoing any jailbreak or configuration changes that were made. Here are the steps to thoroughly disable iPhone surveillance:

1. Change Your Apple ID Password:
   Do this immediately. If someone was using your iCloud credentials to monitor you (no physical app on the phone), changing the password will cut off their access. On your iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security > Change Password. Choose a strong new password that the stalker cannot guess. This will forcibly sign out any devices that were logged into your iCloud (including any spyware service pulling your backup). Tip: Also remove any trusted phone numbers in your Apple ID two-factor settings that belong to the abuser, and do set up two-factor authentication on your Apple account if not already enabled.
2. Remove Unknown Profiles or Device Management:
   Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. If there is any profile or MDM listed that shouldn’t be, tap it and choose Remove Profile. You may need to enter your device passcode to confirm. This will remove any remote management setup from your phone. After removal, also delete any related apps that may have been installed via the profile.
3. Delete Suspicious Apps:
   Press and hold on any app you identified as suspicious until it jiggles, then tap the “X” (or “Remove App”) to uninstall it. On newer iOS, you might do this through the App Library as well. If the device is jailbroken, you might see non-App Store apps that won’t delete normally – in that case, the next step (iOS update) is crucial. Note: If your phone was jailbroken, the spy app might not appear as a normal icon at all; you would instead remove it via Cydia. However, the simpler and safer path is to un-jailbreak by restoring (see step 5).
4. Update iOS to the Latest Version:
   Connect to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available iOS update. Updating the OS will often disable a jailbreak (since the exploit is removed by Apple’s patches) and thereby stop any unauthorized apps from running. It also may revoke any enterprise certificates that a spyware app was using to remain installed. Essentially, an update brings the iPhone back under Apple’s latest security, which can automatically neutralize some spyware. If your phone is already on the latest version but is jailbroken, consider re-installing iOS via iTunes to remove the jailbreak.
5. Restore from a Clean Backup (Optional):
   If you have a backup from before the spyware was installed (and you are sure it’s clean), you can restore the iPhone to that backup. Use a computer with iTunes/Finder or iCloud backup restore. This will erase the device and bring back the state from the earlier time. Be cautious: do not restore from a backup made while the device was compromised, as it might re-introduce the malicious profile or app. When in doubt, skip to step 6.
6. Factory Reset the iPhone:
7. The most thorough solution is to erase all content and settings. In Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. This will wipe the device to factory state. Set it up as new (or after erasure, you can choose to restore from a known-clean backup as mentioned). This guarantees removal of any spyware, jailbreak, or configuration that was present. It’s a drastic step, but if your personal safety is on the line, a fresh start with the device is worthwhile. After reset, go through the earlier detection steps to confirm everything is normal (there should be no odd profiles or apps on a freshly reset iPhone).
8. Secure Your Device and Accounts:
   After cleanup, do the following to prevent reinfection:
9. Monitoring and Scanning:
   Keep an eye on the device behavior in the weeks after. If possible, run a scan with a tool like Certo iPhone or a similar utility by connecting your iPhone to a computer. These can verify that no jailbreak or spyware files remain. Also, Apple’s built-in Safety Check (in Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check) can help review which people and apps have access to your information and revoke any that look wrong (use the “Emergency Reset” if needed to instantly cut all sharing).

Removing iPhone spyware is largely about regaining control of your accounts and device settings, since the spyware itself often doesn’t persist once those are secured. After taking these steps, your iPhone should be free of any unauthorized monitoring. Always stay cautious if the person who installed the spyware had physical access before – keep your device with you and consider using a device management detection tool periodically.

Best Practices to Prevent Spyware Re-infection

• Keep Your Phone Physically Secure:
  Most spyware requires physical access for a few minutes to install. Use strong passwords and don’t leave your device unattended around people you don’t fully trust. Enable auto-lock and do not share your phone’s PIN/password. Consider that fingerprints or face recognition could be used by someone close to you (while you’re asleep, for example), so in high-risk situations a hard PIN might be safer.
• Stick to Official App Stores and Verify Apps:
  Avoid downloading apps from outside the Google Play Store or Apple App Store whenever possible. Both Google and Apple have banned many known stalkerware apps. If you must install an APK (Android) or a configuration profile (iOS), be 100% sure of its source. Never install a random app sent to you or advertised to “track your phone” unless you initiated it and trust the vendor.
• Maintain Updated Software:
  Keep your Android OS, iOS, and all apps updated to the latest versions. Updates frequently patch security holes that spyware might exploit. An up-to-date system is harder for spyware to penetrate without user consent.
• Regularly Audit Device Permissions and Accounts:
  Make it a habit to review which apps have what permissions on your phone. On Android, check the “Permissions Manager” and on iPhone, the Privacy settings, as described in the detection sections. Also review your online accounts (Google, Apple, etc.) for any devices or third-party app access that you don’t recognize. Change your passwords periodically, especially if you suspect they’ve been compromised.
• Use Security Software:
  Consider installing a reputable mobile security app that has anti-spyware capabilities. Many antivirus apps now specifically flag stalkerware apps with warnings. Apps like Malwarebytes, Avast, Kaspersky, or dedicated ones like Incognito or Certo can run scans and provide an additional layer of defense. On iPhone, options are more limited, but using Apple’s built-in security (like enabling automatic updates and using the new Lockdown Mode if you fear high-end spyware) can help.
• Awareness of Social Engineering:
  Be cautious of phishing – some spyware has been known to be distributed via links or attachments. Don’t click suspicious links sent to you, and don’t install configuration files or certificates emailed to you. An attacker might trick you into installing an “update” or “security app” which is actually spyware.
• Support for Victims:
  If you find spyware, remember you’re likely a victim of a crime. Resources like the Coalition Against Stalkerware provide guidance and support. While this report is not legal advice, know that in most jurisdictions it’s illegal to install such software on someone’s device without permission. You can reach out to law enforcement with the evidence (e.g., screenshots, the actual spyware APK, etc.). But your immediate safety comes first – use the technical steps above to secure your device, and then consider further actions with professional advice if needed.

Final Thoughts

Covert spy apps pose a serious threat to privacy on both Android and iPhone. By knowing the common spyware names and capabilities, you can be vigilant. Regularly checking your device for signs of compromise – and swiftly removing any spyware detected – will help you regain control of your phone. Stay informed and cautious, as the spyware landscape in 2025 continues to evolve with new tools, but also new detection techniques to combat them.

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Important Note on Trade-Offs

Some hardening steps reduce convenience or change familiar features. Choose options that match your risk profile. Items are organized by their day-to-day impact compared with a standard, non-hardened iPhone. Low Impact is recommended for everyone, Medium Impact for most users, and High Impact for a smaller group with higher risk profiles.

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Low Impact

These improve security and privacy with minimal disruption. Recommended for all users.

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Software Updates

• Enable automatic iOS updates
  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to General → Software Update → Automatic Updates.
  3. Turn on “Download iOS Updates” and “Install iOS Updates.”
• Install new updates promptly
  1. Settings → General → Software Update.
  2. Tap “Update Now” when available.
• Keep all apps updated
  1. Settings → App Store → turn on “App Updates.”
  2. In the App Store, tap your profile icon → “Update All” when needed.

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App Store and Download Controls

• Enable automatic app updates
  1. Settings → App Store → “App Updates” → On.
• Disable automatic app installations from other devices (if not needed)
  1. Settings → App Store → Automatic Downloads → “Apps” → Off.
• Turn off Background App Refresh for nonessential apps
  1. Settings → General → Background App Refresh.
  2. Choose Off (entirely) or Wi-Fi only, or turn Off per app.

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Require Face-ID for Sensitive Apps

• Add Face ID lock to individual apps (where available)
  1. Touch and hold the app icon → choose “Require Face ID” or “Hide and Require Face ID” (if shown).
  2. Or go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode → “Locked & Hidden Apps” → select apps.
• Use in-app locks (if provided by the app)
  1. Open the app’s settings.
  2. Enable Face ID/Passcode or the app’s “Lock” feature.

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Reduce App Bloat

• Remove unused apps to reduce data leakage and attack surface
  1. Touch and hold an app → Remove App → Delete App.
  2. Or: Settings → General → iPhone Storage → select app → Delete App.

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Web Browsing Settings

• Prevent cross-site tracking in Safari
  1. Settings → Safari → turn on “Prevent Cross-Site Tracking.”
• Enable advanced anti-fingerprinting protections (if available)
  1. Settings → Safari → Advanced → Advanced Tracking and Fingerprinting Protection → set to “All Browsing.”
• Block cookies (only if compatible with your browsing needs)
  1. Settings → Safari → “Block All Cookies” → On.
• Clear history and website data regularly
  1. Settings → Safari → “Clear History and Website Data” → Clear.
• Consider privacy-focused search and browsing for sensitive tasks
  1. Settings → Safari → Search Engine → select a privacy-focused option such as Duck-Duck-Go.
  2. Install a privacy-focused browser such as Firefox Focus and use it for sensitive browsing.
• Understand Safari’s “Hide IP Address”
  1. Settings → Safari → Hide IP Address.
  2. Note: this is not a VPN; choose settings based on your threat model.
• Optionally disable metadata-sharing features
  1. Settings → Safari → turn off “Privacy-Preserving Ad Measurement.”
  2. Settings → Safari → turn off “Search Engine Suggestions” and “Safari Suggestions.”
  3. Settings → Safari → turn off “Fraudulent Website Warning” only if you prefer not to share browsing metadata (may reduce phishing protection).

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Apple ID and iCloud Security

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
  1. Settings → [your name] → Password & Security → “Turn On Two-Factor Authentication.”
• Use a strong, unique Apple ID password and rotate periodically
  1. Settings → [your name] → Password & Security → Change Password.
• Review signed-in devices
  1. Settings → [your name] → scroll to devices.
  2. Tap a device → “Remove from Account” if unrecognized.
• Review iCloud sync and disable unnecessary categories
  1. Settings → [your name] → iCloud → toggle off items you do not need synced.
• Enable Advanced Data Protection (end-to-end encryption)
  1. Settings → [your name] → iCloud → Advanced Data Protection → Turn On.
  2. Ensure passcode and 2FA are enabled first.
• Turn off Automatic Verification (reduce verification-signal sharing)
  1. Settings → [your name] → Password & Security → “Automatic Verification” → Off.

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Restrict Changes to Face-ID, Passcode, and Account Settings

• Require a separate Screen Time passcode for changing sensitive settings
  1. Settings → Screen Time → Turn On Screen Time.
  2. Tap “Use Screen Time Passcode” and set a passcode different from your device passcode.
  3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions → On.
  4. Under “Allow Changes,” restrict “Account Changes,” “Passcode Changes,” and others as desired.

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Data Protection and Encryption

• Ensure device encryption (passcode required)
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → “Turn Passcode On” (if not already).
• Require passcode immediately
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → Require Passcode → Immediately.
• Use a trusted password manager; optionally turn off iCloud Keychain
  1. Install and set up your chosen password manager.
  2. To disable Keychain: Settings → [your name] → iCloud → Passwords and Keychain → Off.
• Turn off AutoFill Passwords for high-risk apps
  1. Settings → Passwords → Password Options → “AutoFill Passwords” → Off (or deselect specific apps).
• Shorten iMessage retention
  1. Settings → Messages → Keep Messages → select “30 Days” or “1 Year.”
• Remove location data from photos/videos before sharing
  1. In Photos, tap Share → Options → turn off “Location.”

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Find My and Lost-Device Protection

• Enable Find My and verify Activation Lock
  1. Settings → [your name] → Find My → Find My iPhone → turn on “Find My iPhone” and “Find My network.”
  2. Activation Lock is enabled when Find My iPhone is on with your Apple ID.
• Review and update trusted recovery contacts
  1. Settings → [your name] → Password & Security → Account Recovery → Add/Manage Recovery Contacts.
• Calibrate to your risk model (limit or disable if location privacy outweighs recovery)
  1. Settings → [your name] → Find My → adjust or turn off as desired.

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Safety Check and Emergency Reset

• Locate Safety Check and know how to use it
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Safety Check.
  2. Use “Emergency Reset” to immediately stop sharing and review account security.
• Periodically audit sharing
  1. Safety Check → “Manage Sharing & Access” → review People, Apps, and Device Access → stop sharing where unnecessary.

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Medium Impact

These changes are highly effective and may affect everyday use. Recommended for most users.

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Limit Wired Access

• Restrict cable/data access while locked
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode.
  2. Ensure “USB Accessories” is Off (prevents accessories from connecting while locked).
  3. If your iOS version shows Accessories/Wired Accessories permissions, set them to “Ask.”

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Screen Unknown Callers and Senders

• “Screen Unknown Callers” and “Screen Unknown Senders”
  1. Settings → Phone → “Silence Unknown Callers” → On.
  2. Settings → Messages → “Filter Unknown Senders” → On.

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Device Lock and Passcode

• Use a strong alphanumeric passcode
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → Change Passcode → Passcode Options → Custom Alphanumeric Code.
• Keep biometrics enabled for convenience and security
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → set up Face ID or Touch ID.
• Disable lock-screen access to sensitive items
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → “Allow Access When Locked” → turn off items you do not need (Control Center, USB Accessories, Siri, Wallet, etc.).
• Remove lock-screen widgets and hide notification previews
  1. Long-press the Lock Screen → Customize → remove unneeded widgets.
  2. Settings → Notifications → Show Previews → Never.
• Consider auto-erase after failed attempts
  1. Settings → Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode → “Erase Data” → On.

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App Permissions and Privacy Controls

• Location permissions per app
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → select app → choose “While Using” or “Ask Next Time”; turn Off if not needed.
• System Services that use location
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → System Services → turn off items you do not need (Alerts, In-App Web Browsing, Networking & Wireless, Suggestions, Significant Locations, Product Improvements).
• Microphone, Camera, Photos, Contacts, Calendars, Files access
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → each category → review and disable for apps that do not need access.
• Bluetooth and Local Network access
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth → review/disable per app.
  2. Settings → Privacy & Security → Local Network → review/disable per app.
• App tracking
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Tracking → “Allow Apps to Request to Track” → Off.
• Apple advertising personalization
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Apple Advertising → “Personalized Ads” → Off.
• Analytics & Improvements
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Analytics & Improvements → turn off “Share iPhone Analytics,” “Share iCloud Analytics,” and any “Improve” toggles you do not need.
• Research Sensor & Usage Data (if available)
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Research Sensor & Usage Data → Off.
• Motion & Fitness
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Motion & Fitness → “Fitness Tracking” → Off (if not required).
• Exposure Notifications
  1. Settings → Exposure Notifications → turn off if not needed.
• Journaling Suggestions and “Discoverable by Others”
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Journaling Suggestions → turn off suggestions.
  2. Turn off “Discoverable by Others” if you prefer stricter privacy.
• Sensitive Content Warning
  1. Settings → Privacy & Security → Sensitive Content Warning → Off if you do not want on-device analysis of photos/messages.

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Network and Connectivity Security

• Avoid auto-joining untrusted Wi-Fi and prune old networks
  1. Settings → Wi-Fi → tap the info (i) next to a network → “Auto-Join” → Off for unfamiliar networks.
  2. Tap “Forget This Network” for old or untrusted SSIDs.
• Limit app access to Bluetooth and Local Network
  1. Review regularly using the steps above under App Permissions and Privacy Controls.

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Use an Encrypted, No-Logs VPN

• Add a reputable VPN, especially on public Wi-Fi
  1. Install a VPN app such as Proton VPN or Nord VPN from the App Store.
  2. Open the app, complete setup, and allow VPN configuration.
  3. Activate the VPN from the app or via Settings → VPN.

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Apply DNS Configurations

• Use a private DNS provider (for example, NextDNS)
  • Option A: Per-Wi-Fi DNS
    1. Settings → Wi-Fi → tap (i) next to your network → Configure DNS → Manual.
    2. Add server addresses → Save.
  • Option B: System profile (if provided by the DNS service)
    1. Install the configuration profile.
    2. Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → verify the profile is installed and active.

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Limit AirDrop Until Needed

• Restrict AirDrop
  1. Settings → General → AirDrop → set to “Receiving Off” or “Contacts Only.”
  2. Or open Control Center → press and hold the connectivity tile → AirDrop → choose setting.
• Turn off AirPlay & Handoff features you do not use
  1. Settings → General → AirPlay & Handoff → turn off features you do not need (Handoff, Transfer to HomePod, etc.).

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High Impact

Apply these when you require maximum reduction of attack surface. Recommended for high-risk users.

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Limit or Disable iCloud

• Reduce cloud exposure
  1. Settings → [your name] → iCloud → turn off categories you do not want in the cloud.
  2. For full sign-out: Settings → [your name] → Sign Out. Ensure you have local backups and alternate storage first.

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Disable iMessage and FaceTime

• Remove Apple messaging services
  1. Settings → Messages → “iMessage” → Off.
  2. Settings → FaceTime → “FaceTime” → Off.
  3. Use end-to-end encrypted messengers and privacy-centric email providers (for example, Signal, Proton).

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Disable Siri

• Turn off Siri and delete history
  1. Settings → Siri & Search → turn off “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’” and “Press Side Button for Siri.”
  2. Scroll down and disable Siri Suggestions you do not need.
  3. Settings → Siri & Search → Siri & Dictation History → “Delete Siri & Dictation History.”

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Enable Lockdown Mode

• Maximum protection against targeted attacks
  1. Complete other configurations first (for example, VPN/DNS profiles).
  2. Settings → Privacy & Security → Lockdown Mode → “Turn On Lockdown Mode” → “Turn On & Restart.”
  3. Be aware that many features and content types are restricted while Lockdown Mode is active. Plan the order of operations accordingly.

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Instead of navigating through multiple menus, users can quickly toggle features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, Airplane Mode, and VPN / DNS settings with a tap. These shortcuts also shit off these services, unlike the buttons in the control center which may only disconnect temporarily. This setup is especially useful for frequent travelers or professionals who need to switch between different network modes quickly. You can add them to your home-screen for easy access. Here they are:

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Wireless On (all wireless on, airplane mode off)

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/6400b9ff8cdf4ab28e75894f2464cb84

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Wireless Off (all wireless off, airplane mode on)

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/e30daddb6c81405d81af08b8f8afad69

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Bluetooth On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/de19d87031b84ccb8b1e69c1c0fced90

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Bluetooth Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/7c5c774f0abd465ba1074b70b172cf09

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WiFi On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/a90a7c39148c4dd6a6b033908870788a

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WiFi Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/649670ff5ea9483fa0e2b3ec28340ea3

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Cellular On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/aece9c0796084a3c8e67104475b36cf1

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Cellular Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/58126e8056fa4749b93778632e4f0462

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Hotspot On

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/f61e482faabf4aadbaa00f4187da9d00

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Hotspot Off

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/7911c84482654187b62bc9f007b12bfe

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Location Services Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/b1b8a911c52c4517802655e9ce85478c

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VPN and DNS Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/14477fd88289492b92240d2455501e1c

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Screen Time Settings

https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/a3e933d024da4b07a57f9e99a6472af4

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