It’s easy to explain away unusual phone or computer behaviour as a glitch. Technology slows down, batteries wear out, and apps can occasionally misbehave.
However, repeated or unexplained changes can be more like the first signs of an insect infestation: a few ants on the surface may not seem alarming, but they can point to activity hidden out of sight. On a device, this hidden activity could involve spyware, unauthorised access, or someone tracking your information without permission.
Recognising these warning signs early is key to protecting your privacy and keeping control of your digital life.
The early signs: a few ants
Like a singular ant, most individual issues can have a harmless explanation. However, if a combination of issues are ignored, it could lead to a bigger uncontrollable infestation.
On your phone or tablet
- Battery draining much faster than usual, even with light use
- The device running hot when you are not actively using it
- Unknown apps, profiles, or permissions appearing
- Data usage suddenly increasing without a clear reason
- Settings such as location, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi turning on by themselves
- Strange pop-ups, messages, or security warning
- Clicking, echoes, or background noise during calls
On your computer
- Slower performance or frequent crashes
- New programs, browser extensions, or toolbars you didn’t install
- Your webcam light turning on unexpectedly
- Files moving, changing, or disappearing
Signs beyond the screen: movement in the walls
Like termites hidden inside timber, monitoring is not always visible on the device itself.
Sometimes the warning signs show up in everyday life:
- Someone knows private information you only shared online or in messages
- Unexpected password reset emails or login alerts
- Friends receiving strange messages that appear to come from you
These signs suggest the problem may be spreading beyond a single device.
What to do first: stop the spread
If you’re concerned, start with practical containment steps:
- Update your device
Install the latest operating system and security updates. - Check apps and permissions
Remove anything unfamiliar or unnecessary. - Change important passwords
Begin with email, banking, and social media. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. - Run reputable security software
Scan for malware or spyware. - Back up important data
This protects your information if a full reset becomes necessary.
Early action can prevent a small problem becoming a major compromise.
When to seek help: structural damage
Seek support or contact police if:
- You believe someone may be monitoring you
- Suspicious behaviour continues after updates, scans, or password changes
- Your accounts, finances, personal information, or safety could be at risk
In Australia, you can contact IDCARE for identity and cyber support or report cybercrime through cyber.gov.au.
If you ever feel unsafe or threatened, call 000 immediately.
Technology issues are common, and many are harmless. But when problems begin to multiply, trusting your instincts matters. Acting early, taking practical steps, and asking for help when needed are the best ways to protect your privacy and stay in control of your digital life.
We’ve partnered with BankVic to help keep our community safe from scams and criminal activity while online! Stay up to date with the latest tips and information in one convenient place, empowering you to prevent online crime and outsmart scammers. Together, we can create a safer internet for everyone!
Read articles here.
Been scammed?
Step 1
If you have given any financial details or have already lost money, contact your bank immediately.
It’s also important to change your passwords, monitor your accounts closely, and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file.
Step 2
Report the scam to police at cyber.gov.au or at your nearest police station.
Additionally, report the scam to Scamwatch and your local authorities to help prevent others from falling victim.
If you think you have been scammed online, IDCARE can help for free! Call 1800 595 160 or visit their website www.idcare.org
Step 3
Getting scammed online does not mean you are not smart. Cybercrime keeps changing, so anyone can be a target. Do not be embarrassed or hard on yourself! Learn about new scams and take steps to stay safe instead.
If you need support after falling victim to a scam talk to friends and family or contact:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Step 4
If you have given any financial details or have already lost money, contact your bank immediately.aFinally, talk about different types of emerging scams and if you have been scammed share your experience with family and friends so they can better recognise the signs of scams.
Smart Scam Guide
Download a comprehensive guide to spotting scams. Download to learn about the most common scams and what to do if you have fallen victim to one.
