A practical guide to finding and removing mobile spyware
Spy Wiper Pro walks you through preparing tools, inspecting file structures, identifying suspicious apps and files, and safely removing them — including when a factory reset is appropriate. This is a simplified, user-friendly workflow based on the document you supplied. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Android — step-by-step
Step 1 — Prepare your tools
You will need a computer (Windows or Mac) and a compatible USB cable. On Mac, download Android File Transfer. On Windows use File Explorer.
Step 2 — Enable Developer Options
Settings ► About Phone ► tap Build Number 7 times → return to Settings ► Developer Options ► enable USB Debugging.
Step 3 — Connect and allow
Plug the phone into the computer. If prompted, tap “Allow USB debugging.” Choose File Transfer (MTP) mode if asked.
Step 4 — Inspect file structure
Open File Explorer (Windows) or Android File Transfer (Mac). Look through Downloads, DCIM, and app folders (WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.) for odd files or folders.
Step 5 — Identify suspicious items
Watch for apps or files with strange names (e.g., “spy”, “monitor”), apps with no icon, or apps named “System Service” / “Update.” Check permissions for camera, mic, and location.
Step 6 — Remove or disable
Settings ► Apps → select the suspicious app → Uninstall. In Storage, clear cache and residual data. Run a trusted antivirus app from Google Play (Malwarebytes, Avast) and follow its instructions.
Step 7 — Factory reset (if needed)
If threats persist, backup important files and use Settings ► System ► Reset Options ► Erase All Data (Factory Reset). This deletes everything — restore from a clean backup only.
iPhone — step-by-step
Step 1 — Prepare your tools
Use a Mac or Windows computer with iTunes (Finder on macOS Catalina+). Use a Lightning cable to connect the iPhone.
Step 2 — Backup
Settings ► Apple ID ► iCloud ► ensure iCloud Backup is enabled ► Back Up Now. Backups preserve your data if a restore is needed.
Step 3 — Symptoms to watch
Rapid battery drain, unusual background noise on calls, higher data usage, unknown apps, or new profiles in Settings ► General ► Profiles & Device Management.
Step 4 — Inspect and remove
Connect to computer and open iTunes/Finder ► select device ► Files. Check Settings ► General ► iPhone Storage for unknown apps. Long-press to delete suspicious apps.
Step 5 — Remove configuration profiles
Settings ► General ► Profiles & Device Management — remove any profile you do not recognize.
Step 6 — Update or restore
Install the latest iOS via Settings ► General ► Software Update. If needed, restore the device via iTunes/Finder (this erases the phone).
Step 7 — Install security apps
Install reputable security apps (e.g., Lookout, Avast) from the App Store and run a full scan.
- Change all passwords for email, social, and other important accounts after cleaning a device.
- Enable two-factor authentication to add a second layer of protection.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when doing sensitive work; use a VPN if necessary.
- Monitor battery and data usage regularly for unusual spikes.
- Back up regularly and keep at least one clean backup offline.
This guidance is a simplified, practical extraction from the Spy Wiper Pro material you provided. For the full step-by-step PDF, download the original file. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Is Spy Wiper Pro suitable for non-technical users?
Yes — the guide is written to be accessible, with clear steps and warnings for risky actions like factory reset. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Will a factory reset always remove spyware?
A factory reset removes most persistent threats, but always backup important data and restore only from clean backups. Some advanced threats on jailbroken/rooted devices may require specialist help.
How do I know if an app is malicious?
Look for unknown installs, missing icons, and apps requesting camera/mic/location. Cross-check app names and search reputable sources. When in doubt, remove it or ask a professional. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Get Spy Wiper Pro
Download the full PDF guide with printable checklists and recovery templates.