Disable camera and microphone
Smartphones today face threats from trojans and malware that try to listen in or capture video through cameras and microphones. Rather than relying on duct tape, a more practical approach offers real protection that users can control themselves.
With Android 12, Google added quick-access controls to mute the microphone and camera. When a user opens the camera app, it may prompt for access to various components as part of normal setup. If an app begins to record audio or take photos in the background, a permission prompt will appear, helping users spot covert activity by spyware.
If a device does not mute these features, any active module may show an icon in the status bar indicating usage. Seeing an icon labeled as active while the device appears idle should raise concern about possible surveillance.
It is important to note that some apps may retain microphone access for quick voice-assistant replies on certain pages if permission was granted previously. Kirill Sitnov, a hardware specialist and lecturer at the MSP School of Programmers, told socialbites.ca that many Android manufacturers have already implemented the option to disable camera and microphone access, and this capability is likely to become widespread soon.
USB protection
There is also a built-in setting designed to shield data and the device from unwanted interference. iPhone users can enable the USB Accessories option from the Face ID and Password settings. This feature blocks USB accessories from connecting while the device remains locked for more than an hour.
On Android devices, no exact analogue exists yet, but experts advise limiting risk when a USB cable is connected. When a gadget is hooked up via USB, it is sufficient to enable automatic charging and respond to a data-transfer prompt only after the screen is unlocked. This helps prevent unauthorized data access.
In some cases, developers’ options hide this control. Access typically involves tapping Build Number repeatedly to unlock Developer Options, then searching for USB-related settings to adjust permissions.
Data theft via browser and apps
To minimize spying through browsers or apps, it is wise to restrict browser access to the camera, microphone, and files. On iPhone, this can be managed in Safari preferences. On Android, users should long-press the browser icon, choose Details, and navigate to Permissions. Here, limits can be set for each permission, and selecting Ask Every Time prevents new access whenever the app closes and reopens.
Similar controls exist on most Android devices, while iPhone users will find many privacy settings under the Privacy section. Eldar Murtazin, Lead Analyst at Mobile Research Group, cautions that even apps from official stores may pose risks. The right approach is to deny access to photos, SMS, and contacts for apps that seem dubious, especially if they request unusual access rights. Even trusted stores do not guarantee safety, according to experts.
SIM protection
Murtazin also stresses the value of PIN protection on SIM cards as a strong layer of defense for personal data and online accounts linked to the device. A forgotten SIM lock can be exploited if a phone is lost, potentially exposing banking and other sensitive information. In high-risk scenarios, keeping the SIM secure helps prevent attackers from gaining access through another device.
When a SIM card is compromised, it can affect banking apps, work accounts, and social networks, risking money and digital identity. Messages or photos stored in the cloud or in chats may also be vulnerable if the SIM is exploited to access those services.
Flash drive protection
For devices with microSD slots, Sitnov recommends encrypting data and limiting read access to the card when the device is in use. If an attacker obtains physical access, encrypted data remains inaccessible on the drive. iPhones do not offer expandable memory, so this feature is not applicable there. Android devices vary by maker, and the location of the related setting can usually be found by searching for keywords in the Settings menu.
Protection from prying eyes
Experts like Sitnov advocate anti-spy screens that both guard the display and reduce the chance of shoulder-surfing. Such glass or film makes viewing only possible from steep angles, so curious bystanders cannot easily read the screen. Yet this can make sharing content inconvenient, such as while watching videos, and the light transmission may reduce brightness.
There is always risk
Some apps collect personal information without consent and relay data to attackers. Such software can access conversations on social networks and messaging apps, log keystrokes, capture screenshots, and record audio and video. Dmitry Galov, a cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky Lab, categorizes surveillance tools into stalker and spyware variants. He notes that tracking software often targets Android with camera, microphone, geolocation, and accessibility permissions and may require device administrator rights. iOS surveillance usually demands jailbreaking or OS hacking, though targeted attacks on high-profile individuals remain technically intricate and not common in the mass market.
Industry voices emphasize that complete protection from espionage is hard in today’s world. Alexander Bulatov, commercial director of NGR Softlab, advises a mindful approach to smartphone use. He suggests reducing the device’s exposure and minimizing the possibility of covert access, since disabling every feature programmatically may not be a perfect solution. The takeaway is to be aware that even with power-saving modes or airplane mode, devices can still reveal activity under certain conditions.