Spyware risks: How to detect unauthorized camera access on mobile devices

Heriberto Gabriel Contreras Garibay, president of Impulso de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación, has identified several warning signs that a mobile device may be compromised by spyware. While some social media claims are false, spyware can indeed allow cybercriminals to control device functions, access files, and monitor user activity.

Key indicators of unauthorized access include the camera activating without a user-initiated application, or the green indicator light remaining on after a video call has ended. Users should also look for unexpected photos or videos, as well as files generated by the camera during periods of inactivity.

Additionally, unusual device overheating and rapid battery depletion can be symptoms of background processes used for recording or transmitting data. However, experts note these issues can also stem from aging hardware, poor network coverage, or intensive app usage.