Should I use Mobile Phone Tracking Apps?

Mobile tracking and spyware applications are often marketed as simple solutions to difficult personal questions. In practice, they can create privacy, security and legal problems.

Consumer spyware can be easy to detect. Unusual battery use, unexpected data activity, unfamiliar applications or changes in device behaviour can alert the person being monitored. Modern devices also include stronger security and privacy protections than many older applications were designed for.

If you are concerned about a partner, employee, device or personal security issue, it is worth understanding the facts before installing software or taking action that could create additional risk.

A better first step

Start by documenting what you already know, what you need to establish and what outcome you are looking for. Where an investigation is appropriate, a professional can explain possible approaches and the relevant legal and practical boundaries.

Never assume that a tracking application is legal simply because it is available online. Rules vary by location and circumstances.