How to hack a phone without physical access: 20 known vulnerabilities that can get a phone compromised

Smartphones are integral to our daily lives, often serving as repositories for sensitive information such as passwords, photos, emails, and financial data. As a result, these devices have become prime targets for hackers. Whether through malicious apps, network vulnerabilities, or user errors, hackers have several methods at their disposal to compromise a phone. To help you stay protected, here are 20 common ways a phone can be hacked, along with actionable advice to safeguard it.

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing is a technique where hackers impersonate trusted entities like banks, social media platforms, or service providers to trick you into disclosing sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers. They usually do this through fraudulent emails, text messages, or fake websites that look almost identical to legitimate ones.

How to Protect Yourself: Always be cautious when receiving unsolicited communication. Do not click on links in emails or text messages from unknown senders. Verify the legitimacy of the website by checking the URL and ensuring it starts with "https". Also, use 2-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

2. Malware and Spyware

Malware and spyware are malicious programs that can be installed on your phone, often without your knowledge. These programs can steal your personal information, track your activities, or even control your device remotely.

How to Protect Yourself: Only download apps from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store. Avoid installing apps from third-party sources or unknown websites. Regularly update your phone’s operating system and security software, as updates often include patches for vulnerabilities.

3. Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops or airports, are not secure and can be easily exploited by hackers. They can use these networks to intercept data traveling between your phone and the network, allowing them to access sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts or conducting financial transactions when connected to public Wi-Fi. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data and keep your connection secure when using public Wi-Fi.

4. Unsecured Bluetooth Connections

Hackers can exploit unsecured Bluetooth connections to access your phone’s data. If your Bluetooth is left on and visible to others, hackers can potentially pair with your device and steal information.

How to Protect Yourself: Turn off your Bluetooth when not in use, and set your device to "hidden" or "non-discoverable" mode. This ensures that your device cannot be seen or connected to by unauthorized users.

5. SIM Card Swapping

SIM card swapping involves a hacker convincing your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card. This allows the hacker to receive calls and text messages, including those used for 2FA verification, giving them access to your accounts.

How to Protect Yourself: Use a PIN or password to secure your account with your mobile carrier. Be wary of social engineering tactics, and always verify any requests for changes to your account through official channels.

6. Malicious Apps

Some seemingly innocent apps contain malware that can compromise your phone’s security. These apps often ask for unnecessary permissions, such as access to your contacts, camera, or microphone, which they use for malicious purposes.

How to Protect Yourself: Always check the permissions an app requests before installing it. If an app requests permissions that seem unnecessary for its function, consider finding a more secure alternative. Read reviews and research the app’s reputation before downloading.

7. Physical Theft

If your phone is lost or stolen, a hacker can easily access the information stored on it, especially if the phone is not protected by a secure password or biometric authentication.

How to Protect Yourself: Set up a strong password, PIN, or biometric lock (fingerprint or face recognition) on your phone. Additionally, enable remote tracking and wiping features, such as “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device,” to locate and erase your phone remotely if it is lost or stolen.

8. Keylogging

Keylogging is when hackers use software to record the keys you type on your phone’s keyboard, capturing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal messages.

How to Protect Yourself: Be cautious about downloading apps from unverified sources. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or opening attachments in emails from unknown senders. Regularly run security scans on your phone to detect potential keyloggers or other types of malware.

9. Fake App Permissions

Hackers sometimes create fake apps that disguise themselves as legitimate applications. Once installed, these apps ask for excessive permissions, such as access to your contacts, messages, or microphone, in order to spy on your activity.

How to Protect Yourself: Review the permissions requested by each app carefully. If an app asks for access to information or features that are not related to its function, it could be malicious. Always read app reviews and check the app’s developer details before installation.

10. Spoofing and Caller ID Manipulation

Hackers can use spoofing techniques to manipulate your phone’s caller ID, making it look like they are calling from a trusted number, such as your bank or a service provider. They can then trick you into giving away sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself: Be cautious when receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers. If someone claims to be from your bank or another service provider, hang up and call the official customer service number to verify the request.

11. Social Engineering Attacks

Hackers often use social engineering tactics to manipulate victims into revealing confidential information. They might pose as someone you trust, like a friend or family member, to gain access to your phone or accounts.

How to Protect Yourself: Always be cautious when sharing information over the phone or online. Verify the identity of anyone requesting personal details, even if they seem familiar. Be skeptical of unsolicited requests for access to your accounts or devices.

12. Operating System Exploits

Exploiting vulnerabilities in your phone’s operating system can give hackers access to your data and apps. This is especially true if your device is running outdated software.

How to Protect Yourself: Always update your phone’s operating system and apps to the latest versions. Manufacturers often release updates to patch security vulnerabilities and protect against emerging threats.

13. Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots

Hackers can create fake Wi-Fi hotspots that mimic legitimate networks. When you connect to one of these fake hotspots, they can intercept your data, including login credentials and sensitive communications.

How to Protect Yourself: Avoid connecting to untrusted or open Wi-Fi networks, especially those that do not require a password. Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data when browsing on public Wi-Fi networks.

14. App Cloning

App cloning is when a hacker creates a replica of a legitimate app, such as a messaging app, and convinces you to install it. Once installed, the hacker can access your messages, contacts, and other sensitive data.

How to Protect Yourself: Always download apps from official app stores and verify the developer’s name and details. Avoid installing apps from third-party websites or untrusted sources.

15. SMS Spoofing

Hackers can send fake text messages that appear to come from a trusted source, like your bank or a government agency. These messages often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your personal information.

How to Protect Yourself: Be cautious when receiving unsolicited text messages, especially those asking you to click on links or provide sensitive information. Verify the source of the message by contacting the entity directly.

16. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

A man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack occurs when hackers intercept communications between your phone and a website or app. They can use this technique to steal passwords, credit card details, or other sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself: Always ensure that websites use "https://" in their URLs before entering sensitive information. Avoid conducting transactions on public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN to secure your internet connection.

17. Unauthorized Device Access

Hackers can gain access to your phone physically if you leave it unattended or unlocked. This allows them to install malicious software or extract sensitive data from your device.

How to Protect Yourself: Always lock your phone with a strong password, PIN, or biometric security feature. Avoid leaving your phone unattended in public spaces.

18. Bluetooth Exploits

If your Bluetooth is left on and set to "discoverable," hackers can exploit this vulnerability to access your phone's data or send malware.

How to Protect Yourself: Turn off Bluetooth when you're not using it, and set it to “non-discoverable” mode to prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to your phone.

19. Stolen Backups

Many users store backups of their phone data in the cloud or on external drives. If these backups are not properly secured, hackers can access them and steal your data.

How to Protect Yourself: Use encryption for cloud backups and always secure your accounts with strong, unique passwords and 2FA. Regularly review your cloud storage settings to ensure that your backups are safe.

20. Rooting or Jailbreaking

Rooting (Android) or jailbreaking (iPhone) removes the built-in security restrictions of your phone, making it easier for hackers to gain control over the device. While some users root or jailbreak their devices to install custom apps, it opens the door for potential attacks.

How to Protect Yourself: Avoid rooting or jailbreaking your device unless absolutely necessary. These actions expose your phone to unnecessary risks, including malware and data theft.