Stalkerware is a type of spyware designed to monitor a person without their consent. . Although it sometimes disguises itself as a legitimate app, its primary goal is clear: to collect private information, including messages, locations, calls, and even passwords.
The problem is more common than it appears, and every year, more cases are reported in which individuals discover that their devices have been compromised.
In this context, preventive cyber surveillance has become a necessity, not only for businesses but also for individuals. Enthec, a company specializing in Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM), has developed solutions capable of detecting and reducing digital risks before they become a problem.
For individuals, Qondar is the key tool. It is a system designed to monitor each person’s digital footprint and provide alerts if suspicious behavior is detected.. In a world where digital harassment is on the rise, having an extra layer of protection can be the difference between feeling safe and living under invisible surveillance.
What is stalkerware, and why is it so dangerous?
Stalkerware is a type of spyware that is especially invasive. Unlike other malware that seeks to steal money or access corporate data, this one focuses on monitoring a person’s private life.
Characteristics of stalkerware
- Concealment: It usually runs in the background, with no visible notifications.
- Full access: You can read messages, listen to calls, track GPS location, or even activate the camera and microphone.
- Easy installation: In most cases, a few minutes of physical access to the device is all that is required to install it.
The most concerning aspect is that we’re not always discussing unknown cybercriminals. Often, the person who installs stalkerware is someone close to them, such as a partner, family member, or even a boss seeking to control them beyond what’s allowed.
How to know if I have stalkerware
The big question for many is how to detect stalkerware on a device. Although it’s not always obvious, some signs can alert us.
Most common signs
- Battery draining too quickly: Spyware consumes resources by being constantly active.
- Device overheating: This issue occurs even when the device is barely used.
- High mobile data usage: Stalkerware requires transmitting the collected information.
- Strange behaviors: unexpected restarts, crashes, or apps that appear without explanation.
If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I know if I have stalkerware?”, pay attention to these signs. They’re not definitive proof, but they are a clue to take action.
How to safely detect stalkerware
Manual detection can be tricky, as these types of programs are designed to go undetected. However, there are helpful strategies:
Check your app permissions
Many legitimate apps request access to your location, camera, or microphone. But if you see an unknown app with suspicious permissions, it’s time to take action.
Install digital monitoring solution
This is where tools like Qondar come in, enabling you to monitor your digital exposure continuously. It’s not just about looking for malware, but also about determining whether there are personal data leaks, unauthorized access, or traces that may provide clues to a stalker.
Keep your devices updated
Manufacturers release updates to fix vulnerabilities; . if you ignore them, you leave the door open to more uncomplicated and severe intrusions.
The role of digital monitoring against stalkerware
In the past, digital protection was limited to installing an antivirus. Today, that defense is no longer sufficient. Stalkerware evolves rapidly and can disguise itself as any other app.
The key is to anticipate threats through continuous monitoring and vigilance. The concept of Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) goes beyond simple detection: it involves monitoring the digital footprint 24/7, identifying potential risks, and reducing them before they become a real problem.
Qondar: a solution designed for people
While Kartos is Enthec’s tool designed for businesses, Qondar focuses on individuals. Its purpose is clear:
- Monitor personal digital exposure.
- Detect leaks of sensitive data on the net.
- Alert about threats that may be related to the use of stalkerware or cyberbullying.
The interesting thing is that Qondar not only reacts, but offers preventive information, . which means you can find out if your email, passwords, or social profiles have been compromised before someone uses them to spy on you.
In a context where digital harassment and unwanted surveillance are becoming increasingly frequent, having this type of service provides genuine peace of mind and security.
Good practices to reduce risk
While having tools like Qondar is essential, there are also practical steps you can take in your daily life:
Strengthen your passwords
Use long, unique combinations for each account. Avoid repeating the same password across different services.
If you want to delve deeper into this topic, we recommend our publication → How to manage business passwords and credentials easily and securely to avoid online threats
Activate two-step verification
Even if someone obtains your password, they will still need a second factor of authentication to gain access.
Check your devices
Clean up your apps periodically and delete any you don’t recognize or use.
Talk about cybersecurity
Cyberbullying is still a taboo subject. Sharing information with family and friends helps you be more prepared.
What to do if you suspect stalkerware
If you detect clear signs that your device may be compromised, it is recommended to:
- Disconnect the internet temporarily to cut off data transmission.
- Make a backup of your most essential files.
- Reset the device to factory settings.
- Use monitoring tools like Qondar to ensure you are not exposed again.
Digital security starts with you
Stalkerware isn’t a distant problem or exclusive to celebrities. Anyone can be a victim, which is why it’s crucial to be informed and have advanced protection tools.
Today, digital security is no longer limited to installing an antivirus. It requires constant monitoring and CTEM solutions, such as those offered by Enthec with Qondar. If you want to feel more secure in your digital life and prevent third parties from accessing your privacy, taking the step toward this type of protection is an investment in peace of mind.
Want to learn more about how Qondar can help you protect your digital privacy? Visit Enthec and learn how to safeguard your personal information from threats like stalkerware today.