How can I regain control of my iPhone and protect my identity?

If it gets that bad, you might want to think about getting a new phone altogether, with a fresh number. Once malware or parental controls settle in, it's a hassle to get them off. But if you can factory reset your current phone, that could solve the issue without needing another device. Just research how you might have gotten compromised in the first place to avoid future issues.

Definitely reach out to the police and consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in identity theft. They'll help you track down what's happened and give your case the serious attention it needs. If you can, find a company that deals with these situations—they can help unravel the mess and guide you on next steps. Just make sure to prioritize freezing your bank accounts first!

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, Lisa. First things first, you need to go to your bank ASAP and freeze your accounts to prevent any further unauthorized access. After that, factory reset your iPhone; this should remove any parental controls or rogue software. Make sure to change all your passwords on a different device after the reset. Also, don't forget to file a police report and notify the Social Security Administration about the identity theft. You can even contact an identity theft protection service for further assistance. Good luck!