Is someone watching your phone or your money?
Sometimes the person watching isn't a stranger. A partner, ex-partner or family member may be monitoring your phone, reading your messages, or controlling your money. This is abuse, and help is available.
Your safety comes first
If someone is monitoring you, they may notice if you suddenly change passwords or remove apps, and this could make things more dangerous. Think about your safety before making changes, and consider getting advice first from a specialist service, using a device they don't have access to.
In immediate danger, call 999. If you can't speak, call 999 from a mobile, listen to the questions, then press 55 when prompted, so the operator knows it's a genuine emergency.
Signs someone may be watching your phone
- They know things you only said in messages, emails or calls
- They always know where you are
- Apps you don't recognise, especially ones with access to location, messages, accessibility features or "device administrator" rights
- Your phone's settings, passwords or two-step verification changed without you doing it
- Unfamiliar devices listed as logged in to your Apple ID, Google, email, WhatsApp or social media accounts
- Your phone's battery drains unusually fast or the phone gets hot when idle. This alone doesn't prove anything.
Common ways people are monitored
- Shared accounts and passwords: someone who knows your Apple ID or Google password can see your location, photos and backups from their own device.
- Location sharing through Find My, Google Maps, Snapchat or family-sharing settings.
- WhatsApp Web or linked devices that show your messages on another computer.
- "Stalkerware" apps installed by someone with access to your phone.
- Hidden trackers like AirTags in bags or cars. iPhones and most Android phones now warn you about unknown trackers travelling with you.
Checks you can make, when it's safe
- On iPhone, Settings › Privacy & Security › Safety Check shows who you share information with and lets you review or stop it.
- On Android, review apps in Settings › Apps, and check Security › Device admin apps and Accessibility for anything you don't recognise.
- In WhatsApp, open Linked devices and log out of any you don't recognise.
- Check the "devices" or "where you're logged in" list in your Apple, Google, email and social media accounts.
- Change passwords to ones only you know, and turn on two-step verification using a phone only you control.
Financial abuse
Economic or financial abuse means someone controls your money or uses it against you. It's a recognised form of domestic abuse under UK law. Signs include:
- Taking your wages or benefits, or demanding receipts for everything you spend
- Watching your banking app or demanding your passwords and PIN
- Running up debts in your name, or pressuring you to take out loans
- Stopping you from working, studying or having your own bank account
Many UK banks have specially trained teams to help customers experiencing financial abuse. They can help you open an account the other person can't see, change contact details, or separate joint accounts safely. Ask to speak to the vulnerable customers or financial abuse team, in branch or by phone.
Where to get confidential help
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge), 24/70808 2000 247England. Free and confidential.
- Men's Advice Line0808 801 0327For men experiencing abuse
- Scotland's Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline0800 027 123424/7
- Tech safety guidesRefuge Tech SafetyStep-by-step device help
Surviving Economic Abuse has detailed guidance on regaining control of your finances.
Tip: if you're worried someone checks your browsing history, use a private or incognito window, or a device they don't have access to.
Last reviewed: October 2026