Is Your Mobile Tapped? Check These Hacking Signs & Secret Codes

In India, smartphones are now our wallets, ID cards, and private diaries. But with the rise of UPI payments and affordable 5G data, hackers are finding new ways to break into devices. Recent reports from CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) have warned Android and iPhone users about high-risk vulnerabilities that can let attackers steal your OTPs, bank details, and personal photos without you even knowing.

If your phone is acting strange, do not ignore it. It might not just be “old age”—it could be a cyber attack. This guide explains the clear warning signs of a hacked phone and how you can check and fix it immediately.

1. The Battery Drain and Overheating Test

One of the easiest ways to spot a hack is to look at your battery.

• The Sign: Does your phone get hot even when you are not using it? Does a 100% charge drop to 20% in just a few hours of normal use?
• The Reason: Malicious software (malware) runs silently in the background. It records your calls, tracks your location, or sends data to a hacker’s server. This constant activity “eats” your battery power and processor, causing the phone to heat up significantly.

How to check: Go to Settings > Battery. Look for the list of apps using the most power. If you see an app you don’t recognize (or a simple app like “Calculator” or “Flashlight” using 40% battery), that is a major red flag.

2. Unexplained Data Usage Spikes

Data is cheap in India, so we often ignore our daily limits. However, hackers need the internet to steal your data.

• The Sign: You receive a message from Jio, Airtel, or Vi saying 50% or 90% of your daily data is exhausted, even though you haven’t watched videos or downloaded big files.
• The Reason: Spyware uploads your photos, screenshots, and private messages to an external server. This uploading process consumes a lot of data.

3. The “Ghost Touch” and Weird Pop-ups

Is your phone doing things on its own? This is often called “Ghost Touch.”

• The Sign: Apps open or close automatically. You see Flash messages or pop-up ads (often for betting apps or adult content) even when you are on your home screen or using a trusted app like WhatsApp.
• The Reason: This usually means you have accidentally installed Adware or a Remote Access Trojan (RAT). This gives a hacker partial control over your screen.

4. Strange Noises During Calls

If you suspect someone is listening to your calls (tapping), listen closely during voice conversations.

• The Sign: You hear clicking sounds, static noise, or distant voices even when the network signal is full.
• The Reason: While bad networks are common in India, consistent clicking sounds can indicate call-recording software is active on your line.

5. You Stop Receiving OTPs or Calls

This is a dangerous sign linked to SIM Swapping.

• The Sign: Your phone shows network signal, but you are not getting incoming calls or SMS, especially bank OTPs.
• The Reason: A hacker may have cloned your SIM card or contacted your operator to transfer your number to their device. If your phone goes “dead” for calls/SMS suddenly, contact your service provider immediately.

6. Official USSD Codes to Check for Call Forwarding

Hackers often use “Call Forwarding” to redirect your calls and OTP messages to their number. You can check this instantly using special codes (USSD codes) on your dialer.

• Dial *#21#: This code shows if your calls, SMS, or data are being forwarded to another number. If it says “Not Forwarded,” you are safe. If it shows a number you don’t know, you are being tapped.
• Dial *#62#: This shows where calls go when your phone is switched off or unreachable. Sometimes, this might be your operator’s voicemail number, which is normal.

7. The New Threat: “Digital Arrest” & Fake Apps

In 2024 and 2025, a new scam trend called “Digital Arrest” became popular in India.

• What happens: Scammers pose as Police or CBI on a video call, claiming your ID was used for a crime. They force you to download an app to “verify” your phone.
• The Danger: These apps (often sent via APK files on WhatsApp) contain malware. Once installed, they grant the scammer full access to your gallery and banking apps. Never download an APK file sent by a stranger.

How to Fix a Hacked Phone?

If you see these signs, do not panic. Follow these steps:

Read More : Cyber Crime India 2026

1. Disconnect Internet: Immediately turn off Wi-Fi and Mobile Data. This stops the hacker from stealing more data.
2. Check Admin Apps: Go to Settings > Security > Device Admin Apps. If you see any unknown app having “Admin” rights, revoke it and delete the app.
3. Scan for Malware: Use a trusted antivirus (like Malwarebytes) or the built-in “Security Scan” on phones like Samsung, Xiaomi, or OnePlus.
4. Factory Reset (Best Solution): If the problem continues, backup your photos and contacts, then perform a Factory Reset. This wipes the phone clean and deletes the hacker’s software permanently.

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