Digital Forensics Dispatch

Is Someone Reading Your Texts?

February 7, 2023

We are often approached by folks who are concerned that others know too much about their communications, like someone is inside their phone reading their text messages. Unfortunately, this is sometimes exactly what is going on.

When we are approached with these types of concerns, we generally first ask the individual what types of devices they have. Knowing the type of device helps to inform the rest of our questions and potential investigation. These days it’s most common for people to have either an Apple iPhone or an Android.

When it comes to iPhones, one of the biggest risks is often the iCloud feature built right in by Apple. The same features that make using the Apple devices convenient, like iCloud syncing and message forwarding, can be used by people close to you to monitor your texts. The good news is that there are a few simple things to check to make sure your messages are secure.

To check for other devices that could be signed into your iCloud and syncing your messages, first sign into your Apple ID. This can be done by using a web browser to navigate to appleid.apple.com. Once signed in, select the “Devices” section. In this section you can check for extra devices that could be snooping on your texts, and even remove them. If you do find an unknown device, and you are, or could be, engaged in a legal matter, you will want to resist the urge to delete it immediately before thoroughly documenting.

Another thing to keep an eye out for on the iPhone is a simple message forward. To check for that, just go into the phone’s settings, head down to the Text Messaging section, and check for Text Message forwarding. Just like the iCloud, if you find something unexpected here, resist the urge to immediately remove it before you have the chance to get assistance properly documenting it.

When it comes to Android phones, checking for spyware or monitoring software can initially be done by reviewing your installed apps. If you see something you don’t recognize, it could be time for concern. It is often best to have a professional confirm that though, as there are literally millions of Android apps out there.

Finally, with either type of device, standard security practices can always help. Updating passwords, recovery questions, and enabling two factor authentication wherever possible can make a huge difference moving forward. If you have questions or concerns about cellphone spyware, feel free to reach out to the experts at Sensei Enterprises.

Email:    Phone: 703.359.0700
Digital Forensics/Cybersecurity/Information Technology
https://senseient.com/services/digital-forensic