Is Your Phone Listening to You? How to Stay Safe from App Spying

What’s With the Paranoia?

Ever talked about something random - say, running shoes, and then suddenly seen ads for them on Instagram? You’re not alone. Many users wonder, “Is my phone listening to me?” And while it may sound like a conspiracy, there’s a technical explanation behind it.

The real culprit? App permissions.

Let’s break down how they work, why they matter, and how you can take back control of your phone’s privacy.

What Are App Permissions (and Why Should You Care)?

App permissions are the access rights you grant to apps on your phone—like allowing a photo editor to access your camera, or a messaging app to use your microphone.

Common permissions include:

Microphone access

Camera access

Location tracking

Contact list

Storage access

SMS and call logs

Some apps genuinely need these to work properly but others may be collecting far more data than necessary.

The Risks of Unchecked Permissions

If you’re not careful, you may be allowing apps to:

Record audio without your knowledge

Track your location 24/7

Access personal files and photos

Share your data with third parties

Not only does this put your privacy at risk, but it can also drain your battery and slow down your phone.

How to Check and Control App Permissions

Here’s how to regain control of your phone fast:

On Android:

Go to Settings > Apps

Select an app → Tap Permissions

Toggle off anything unnecessary (e.g., microphone for a calculator app)

On iPhone (iOS):

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security

Tap on Microphone, Camera, etc.

See which apps have access and toggle off the ones that shouldn’t

Pro Tip: Look for permissions that don’t make sense. Why would a photo editing app need your contact list?

Best Practices for Protecting Your Privacy:

• Download apps only from trusted sources
• Check app reviews and privacy ratings
• Use your phones built-in permission manager
• Avoid clicking suspicious links
• Regularly delete unused apps

Signs Your Phone Might Be Compromised:

• Battery drains faster than usual
• Phone heats up while idle
• Unusual ads or pop-ups
• Unknown apps installed
• Data usage spikes without reason

If you notice these red flags, it’s time to get your phone checked.

How Westcoast Repairs Can Help?

At Westcoast Repairs, we don’t just fix screens we fix trust.

Visit any of our locations in Perth, Sydney, or Darwin for:

• Privacy audits & settings check
• Malware & spyware scans
• System cleanups
• Data recovery
• Full phone diagnostics

Your phone will feel brand new and more secure than ever. 

Visit Us:

Perth: 265 Albany Hwy, Victoria Park

Darwin: Casuarina Square, 247 Trower Rd

Sydney: Westfield Liverpool, NSW

Take Control of Your Tech

Your phone shouldn’t be a spy in your pocket. By staying informed about app permissions and digital hygiene, you’re taking the first step toward owning your privacy.

Want peace of mind? Let the tech experts at Westcoast Repairs secure your device today.