I'm in my 20s and feeling really uneasy about this situation with my parents. I suspect they've accessed my iPhone 14 Pro Max, which I got from my dad as an old device. I've noticed they seem to know about all my messages, whether from iMessage, WhatsApp, or Snapchat, and they can even see my emails and browsing history. To test my theory, I had a friend text me, and within minutes, my dad came downstairs with my car keys without saying a word. It's been super uncomfortable. I've started searching for things online to see if it might worry them, and I'm trying to avoid using my phone for chatting, opting for my laptop instead. I'm planning to do a factory reset and back up everything, but I'm curious if anyone knows what software or methods they might be using to spy on me? I can't afford a new phone yet, so I want to handle this so I can feel more secure.
6 Answers
Factory resetting your phone is a good first step. Also, make sure to change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication for your accounts. This way, it's harder for them to spy on you afterward. They won’t have access if they can't get into your accounts!
Exactly, those are solid steps!
If you're not able to remove the Apple ID linked to the phone, consider creating a completely new iCloud account and following up with a factory reset. Parents can be pushy, but you need your own space, and they shouldn’t be tracking your every move.
Resetting your phone is key here, but also listen to advice about getting your own Apple ID. Your parents could easily have access if it's tied to their account. And hey, look into moving out sooner rather than later if that's an option for you; you deserve your privacy!
I get where you're coming from, but moving out isn’t the only solution. Setting clear boundaries with your parents might also help. They should respect your privacy as an adult.
Looks like they might have your Apple ID, which is why they can see everything. For WhatsApp and Snapchat, they could have a spy app installed. You’ll want to check for any suspicious apps that you don’t use and delete them. Also, be aware that your call and SMS history may be accessible through the phone carrier by the account holder.
Totally, and if you can’t reset or change your Apple ID, you may need a new phone altogether.
For sure, get everything set up under your control to reclaim your privacy.
You might want to check if you're logged in with your own Apple ID. If you inherited the phone without wiping it first, it could still be linked to your parents' accounts, allowing them access to your messages and browsing history. A factory reset and creating a new Apple ID should help.
You might also want to just get a new phone number and ditch the old one. Check that no one has access through family sharing, and consider getting off their family plan if that's possible. Just owning your own space can help you feel more secure.
And don't forget to set a custom DNS on your home Wi-Fi, which can further secure your internet activity.