How to Find Out Who Tried to Access Your Phone

Have you ever worried that someone might be snooping on your phone without permission? It's a common concern nowadays, as there are always those with ill intentions around us. So, what can you do to find out who has tried to unlock your phone when you're not around? Even with lock screens enabled on our mobile devices, there's still a chance someone may try to access it.

If you're concerned that someone may be attempting to access your phone, or simply want photo evidence in case your phone gets stolen, then this article is for you. By following some simple steps, you'll be able to identify anyone who tries to unlock your device.

Can you tell if someone has tried unlocking your phone?

Yes, there are apps that can detect unauthorized access attempts. But can you identify who the person is? Also, yes - certain privacy and lock screen monitoring apps have the ability to take photos of anyone entering the wrong password on your phone. Below we'll cover some of the best options to help you catch phone snoops' red handed.

How do these apps work?

All utilize your phone's front camera to snap photos of anyone entering an incorrect password at any time. Let's take a look at how these apps can assist you in identifying unauthorized users.

Before installing any of them, there are a few common points to be aware of. None can take photos of someone unlocking with fingerprints, as Android does not provide apps access to whether a successful fingerprint reading occurred. So, they only work for incorrect passcodes, patterns or PINs.

Android also only considers unlock attempts invalid if 4 or more incorrect characters are entered. So very brief mistakes won't trigger the apps. You'll also need to set each app as a "device admin" for full functionality monitoring your lock screen.

Now let's look at some top recommendations:

Read Also: How to Detect and Remove Spyware on Your Android Phone

1. Lockwatch

Many users favor Lockwatch. It's simple to use - just enable it and you'll immediately receive an email with a photo of anyone attempting access. Tailor email alerts from 1-3 incorrect passcode tries. you can Pay $4 for the premium version to get 3 photos per alert instead of 1, including audio.

Link: Lockwatch - Thief Catcher - Apps on Google Play

2.Third Eye

This app is simple to use. It contains many useful functions that give it robust capabilities; every feature is important. The app will take a photo if someone unsuccessfully tries to unlock the phone. It will instantly save this photo in the Image log section.

It does not have email or other non-essential features apart from some notification options that show the last time your mobile device was accessed.

Link: Third Eye - Intruder Detection - Apps on Google Play

3. CrookCatcher

Keep hi-res photos with location data on a clean interface. Tweak attempts/alerts needed. You can pay a one-time $3 fee to remove ads and gain extras like swapping SIM alerts.

Link: CrookCatcher — Anti theft app - Apps on Google Play

In summary, these top options can help identify unauthorized phone access while providing key photographic evidence. Be sure to carefully review each app's permission settings for optimal security and privacy. With the right precautions, you'll be informed of any snooping on your device.

FAQs

What if the phone is stolen, will the apps still work?

If the phone is stolen, the apps require it to be powered on and have an internet connection to send photos via email. The battery might drain too quickly. As a backup, some apps like CrookCatcher can store high-res photos locally with location data if the phone is ever recovered.

Can the photos be remotely deleted by a snooper?

No, any photos taken by the apps when incorrect passcodes are entered would be securely stored either on the local device or sent to the owner's email. A snooper would not have access to delete photos taken of themselves.

How do I know the apps aren't also snooping on me?

Check app permissions carefully and uninstall any that request more access than needed for their functions. Only choose reputable apps from the official app stores. Monitor your accounts and device for any suspicious activity after installing a monitoring app.

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