How to Spy on a Cell Phone Remotely for Free: 2023 Guide

In the present-day society, it is quite prevalent for people to seek better insight into the affairs of their beloved ones. Caring guardians are keen on safeguarding children’s online undertakings, while devoted couples exhibit apprehensive feelings pertaining to their significant others’ loyalties. Similarly, corporate entities also want to regulate and ensure that the working populace remains in sync with the agenda during prescribed hours. This inquisitive thirst for knowledge indictive of espionage is more dominant—compelling individuals to know every pinch of detail about diverse individuals through their handheld devices. Trivial it may seem, but the need stems from a very honest and authoritative source, including heartfelt concerns, lack of trust, or a mere desire to know.

While parents may have access to their children’s phones while the child is still a minor, there are serious legal and ethical concerns to consider when deciding to spy on someone’s phone. However, if you decide spying is still the best way to go, there are a few practical factors you should consider: which spying app is right for you, how to remotely install the spying app, and what kind of implications you might face when spying on someone’s phone in your area.

Creating a guide for an effective mobile spying experience, our team has evaluated a variety of spy apps to enhance remote acts of investigative shenanigans. In this piece, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to the contemporary surreptitious craft of remotely monitoring a smartphone. We’ll lightly graze the nuances surrounding what specific apps truthfully deserve your social security number, how to install spyware on a 21st-century Nokia 3310, and a myriad of fascinating espionage escapades about spying on someone without snatching their lovely rectangle. We will also lightly glance upon the non-legal ramification of stalking someone from another state.

Best Phone Spying Apps

There are many ways to spy on someone else’s phone from a distance. Some methods are free, while others you might have to pay for to get the best results. For instance, you could use social media apps, Wi-Fi connections, or various “spy apps” that are cheap, easy, and often free. Many phone spy apps claim to work fine, and are often marketed under false promises. Some are better than others, though. We’ve tried out several cell phone spy programs, and we think both the mSpy phone spy app and the Highster Mobile cell phone spy are pretty good.

mSpy: Best App to spy on someone’s phone Remotely

mspy dashboard

mSpy, an app for tracking your phone, has been designed to help you protect your kids, step up your productivity, and supervise your relationships. It is not a matter of wanting to be in someone’s business; it is about ensuring the safety of those we care about. The demand for a multifunctional product for parents and employers helps to monitor kids and employees from anywhere.

A notable aspect of mSpy is its capacity to monitor calls, messages, and social networking. This powerful app allows users to track all phone call activities and view text messages, instant messages, GPS locations, and more from their control panel. Moreover, it’s a legal solution that can be used for monitoring any sort of mobile communication and track the activities on a device with the utmost discretion.

mspy dashboard 1

services, such as a system to monitor computer use, an app for parents to monitor their children, and a method to track vehicles.

In order to use the services of mSpy, you need to sign up on its website. mSpy is a premium application and only paying customers can use its services. Therefore, you need to subscribe to one of its pricing plans before you can use it. mSpy offers three different pricing plans – Basic, Premium, and Family Kit – and any of these will give you access to the app’s remote spying features. You can also buy additional features separately in the mSpy app.

Pros of mSpy

  • Compatibility with Android and iOS: The mSpy app is compatible with both the Android and iOS operating systems and can be installed on devices that run on them., That provides users with the flexibility to monitor a wide range of devices.
  • Comprehensive monitoring capabilities: mSpy allows users to track calls, messages, social media activity, and more, giving them a complete picture of someone’s activity.
  • Additional features: In addition to its monitoring capabilities, mSpy also offers several additional features, such as the ability to block websites and apps, set up keyword alerts, and remotely lock or erase the device.
  • Undetectability: mSpy can be installed on the target’s phone or used remotely. The target cannot know that they are being spied upon with either method because they cannot detect the remote spy app.
  • Easy to install and use: mSpy can be installed remotely or directly onto the target device, making it easy to set up. mSpy is also easy to use because it does not require rooting or jailbreaking a phone before it can be installed or used to monitor a phone.

Cons of mSpy

  • Cost: To access mSpy’s services, users need to subscribe to a pricing plan. While mSpy offers three pricing plans, users may need to subscribe to its premium plan to access features. The subscription plans might be considered expensive. mSpy is not the cheapest remote cell phone spy app, but it is more effective than most free options.
  • Device restrictions: You can only spy on one device at a time with most mSpy subscriptions. To spy on multiple devices at one time with mSpy, you need to subscribe to the family kit pricing plan, which is the most expensive, or buy additional subscriptions.
  • Ethical and Legal concerns: Spying on someone’s phone may raise ethical concerns, especially if done without their knowledge or consent. It is important to consider the ethical implications of using mSpy before setting it up. Also, installing mSpy on someone’s device without their knowledge or consent may be illegal in some jurisdictions. 
  • Potential for misuse: As with any tool, mSpy can be misused or abused. Using mSpy and other spy apps that can be installed remotely responsibly and ethically is important.

Spy on a Cell Phone Remotely Using uMobix

umobix dashboard

uMobix, created by uMobix LLC, is a further examination application that enables you to hold the monitor of somebody’s text messages, phone logs, tracker, and GPS locator surface the cell phone. This program is well-suited with both iOS and Android phones, including no jailbreak and no-root capabilities.

umobix dashboard 1

uMobix may be installed onto the target device or used remotely to follow and examine various facets of the device’s activities, such as calls, messages, and social media action. This data is transmitted to a basic unit or dashboard that people may reach by using the website or app of uMobix. The application has features that are similar to other remote phone surveillance applications and includes the following list.

  • Call tracking: uMobix allows users to view all incoming and outgoing calls, including the caller’s name, number, and duration. Users can also view call logs and get notified of specific calls, such as those from unknown or blocked numbers. Also, uMobix allows users to access their target’s contact list (phone book entries, new and existing contacts, contacts’ personal information, deleted contacts, etc.).
  • Message tracking: uMobix allows users to view and read sent and received text messages, instant messages, and social media posts. This includes the ability to view deleted messages and recover them if necessary. uMobix gives its users access to several messaging apps that their targets may use, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, WeChat, Skype, Hangouts, Google Duo, etc.
  • Social media tracking: uMobix allows users to track social media activity, including posts, comments, likes, and more. Users can view all social media accounts linked to the device and get notified of specific activity, such as posts containing exact keywords. On Android, uMobix offers real-time tracking of social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and even dating apps such as Tinder. On iOS, uMobix offers full access to Facebook and Instagram.
  • GPS location tracking: uMobix allows users to track cell phone location in real time and view a history of the device’s movements. Users can also set up geofencing alerts to notify them when the device enters or leaves a specific location. uMobix can also be used to track a stolen or lost phone.
  • Additional features: In addition to its monitoring capabilities, uMobix offers several additional features, including the ability to block WiFi, block devices, block websites and apps, restrict apps, disable messages, restrict calls, set up keyword alerts, and remotely lock or erase the device. These features allow users to customize and control the device’s activity, helping them to protect their loved ones or employees and ensure their safety.

To utilize uMobix, which, like the majority of top-tier surveillance applications, demands payment for a subscription plan up front, you’re going to need to select the appropriate plan for your own individual needs. Keep in mind, before you use uMobix, you will need to weigh your decision.

Pros of uMobix

  • Versatility: uMobix offers a wide range of features that allow users to track and monitor various aspects of a device’s activity, including calls, messages, social media activity, and more. With uMobix, you can monitor every text, call, and social media action your child, spouse, or employee takes and track their location simultaneously.
  • Customization and control: uMobix allows users to customize and control the device’s activity with features such as blocking websites and apps and setting up keyword alerts. This helps users to protect their loved ones or employees and ensure their safety.
  • Compatibility: With uMobix, you can spy on an Android phone remotely and an iPhone because the app is compatible with both operating systems. This removes limitations and gives users wide access to devices.
  • Remote installation: uMobix can be installed remotely, making it easy to set up and use without requiring physical access to the target device.

Cons of uMobix

  • Cost: uMobix is not the most affordable phone spying app on the market, and users may need to pay a subscription fee to access all of the app’s features.
  • Call restrictions: uMobix does not allow users to record calls made or received by their target.
  • Legal considerations: The use of spy apps such as uMobix may be considered illegal in some locations.
  • Device restrictions: Users can only spy on a single device simultaneously with a uMobix subscription plan. You have to pay for multiple subscriptions to spy on multiple devices.

eyeZy – Remote spyware for cell phone

welcome eyezy

EyeZy is considered one of the foremost applications to demonstrate how one can spy on mobile devices and transfer information illegally. EyeZy app is a comprehensive espionage tool for anyone especially those seeking to become a software pirate. One of the key features is that it allows you to track every key stroke entered on the targeted device. Once the data is acquired, it is stored in a user-friendly framework accessible via an online dashboard.

EyeZy is an application that is very beneficial in tracking messages made and received on the object device. The application is able to maintain support and a hanger on SMS, both of them are merely for the transmission of text messages, production of an SMS back and forth easily. Also, EY succeeds in tracking emails, and other messaging apps; it can do more beyond your expectations. It helps you in storing the data you need to traverse many barriers. The user may see a lot of things provided on the server such as: text messages, images, and many other files.

eyezy dashboard

Moreover, besides tracking messages, EyeZy also has a phone analyzer feature that enables users to peer into the target’s complete call history and contact list, whether through eyez online or offline. In-depth analysis lets you discern whether call details are inbound or outbound, as well as whether a call was accepted or missed. Furthermore, it throws light on the precise timing and duration of any particular calls. For additional control, EyeZy is also equipped with a GPS tracker. You will be incapable of losing your loved ones by who can’t save themselves by tracking their habitual habits. You will be allowed to do what you should — look at the map of your life and draw out the limitations so nothing like that will ever happen again.

Besides message tracking, EyeZy also includes a phone analyzer feature that lets users view a target’s contact list and call history. Users can see incoming calls, outgoing calls, missed calls, and accepted calls, and call duration and time information. EyeZy also possesses a GPS tracker, enabling users to monitor a target’s locations. This feature uses GPS data from a device and displays it on a map. The GPS tracker’s accuracy depends on the target’s device model – newer models generally offer better accuracy.

EyeZy’s exceptional feature also includes the ability to see everything on the targeted telephone. In addition to photographs and videos, users can also see other hidden files, all types of installed applications, bookmarks, and Web browsing history. It has the potential to create its access to anything present in the target device. Not only this, but it also has the feature of connection blocking. A user can set certain proxies, restrict access to any website or application by putting some filters on WiFi connections. It can be used to prevent an individual from watching porn on the Internet or getting access to applications and games that are out of age limits. Along with all these options, it also provides the complete list of applications installed on the targeted device. So by a single click on each app, no one can access it anymore.

eyezy web blocker

Pros of EyeZy

  • Offers a range of monitoring and tracking capabilities, including keystrokes tracking, message tracking, phone analyzer, GPS tracker, and access to all files on the target device.
  • Supports multiple messaging apps, including SMS, email, and 11 other popular apps such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Skype.
  • Allows users to take screenshots of the target device in the background, allowing them to store message history even if texts are deleted.
  • It provides a full list of installed applications on the target device and allows users to block access with a single click.
  • Offers connection blockers that allow users to put content filters on certain web pages, applications, or WiFi connections, helping to prevent the target device from accessing inappropriate content.

Cons of EyeZy

  • Using EyeZy to monitor someone’s activity without their knowledge or consent may be considered unethical and even illegal in some jurisdictions.
  • The GPS tracker’s accuracy depends on the target device’s model, with newer models typically providing more accurate results.
  • EyeZy may be unable to fetch some data from the target’s phone if it is deleted within two minutes.

How to Install Spy Software on a Cell Phone Remotely

Setting up monitoring software, like mSpy, uMobix, or eyeZy, on a cell phone from a distance can be difficult because it calls for one to get ahold of the gadget for installation. The following provides ways to install remote spyware on a cell phone.

  • Purchase a license: To use the services of any effective spy software, you must purchase a license through an active subscription plan on the website of the spy software you intend to use. When paying for a subscription plan, ensure you choose a package that will meet all your needs.
  • Download the app: After purchasing a license, you will receive an email containing your login information and a link to download the spy software.
  • Install the app on your phone: After clicking on the download link, the app will begin downloading. Install the app on your phone to start using it.
  • Install the app on your target’s phone: You need one-time physical access to your target’s phone to spy on them. When you get your target’s phone, install the app on their phone using the download link in the installation guide sent to your mail and log in using the registration code sent. Follow the prompts to complete the setup process, which may include granting the app access to certain features on your target’s phone.
  • Login to your dashboard and start spying: After installing and setting up the spy software on your target’s cell phone, login into your dashboard and start spying.

How Can I Spy on a Cell Phone Without Installing Software on the Target Phone?

Whether it’s feasible to use an espionage application without physical access to the target cell phone is certainly a matter that springs up at some point or another. Installing spying apps remotely can, in fact, be difficult. It is almost impossible to keep an eye on a cell phone without getting hands on it to install something. However, there are many approaches that could assist in free spying on cell phones, which actually don’t demand you handle the target cell phone. These approaches use the cloud storage of your target’s devices to let you watch over what they are doing remotely.

Can You Spy on an iPhone Using iCloud?

Indeed, it is possible to monitor an iPhone without using an application by means of iCloud. Apple Inc. offers iCloud as a means to store and synchronize information on the web. With iCloud, one can effectively maintain and coordinate their data among their numerous Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Mac.

One of the main features of iCloud is the ability to store and access data from anywhere with an internet connection. This includes photos, documents, contacts, and more. iCloud also provides various other services, such as email, online backup storage, and the ability to share and collaborate on documents.

If you have the iCloud login information of your target, you can access their data, including their photos, messages, and other information. You can also use your target’s iCloud to view their real-time location and past location through the “Find my iPhone” feature. How?

  1. Use your AppleID and Password to log in to iCloud.
  2. Click on Find my iPhone.
  3. Click on a lost device from the map that shows all devices linked to your account.
  4. Launch any action- erase memory, alarm sound, or lost mode.

How to Spy on an Android Phone Using Device Manager

Because Android phones don’t offer iCloud, you might be curious if an Android spy app exists that doesn’t require remote installation. While it’s true that there is no free Android spy app that can be used to spy on other phones without installation and the person being spied on not knowing, you can actually monitor another phone using Android Device Manager for free and without having to install anything. Also known as “Find My Device,” this service offered by Google allows its users to locate, lock, or delete their phones if they’ve lost them or if they’ve been stolen. But if you have access to your target’s Google account, that’s even better; you’ll be able to track it down and get access to most of that person’s information.

  1. Log in to the Google account linked to the target phone.
  2. You’ll see the target phone’s location on a map if the device is turned on and connected to the internet.
  3. Lock the device or erase all data by selecting either option.

Use a Keylogger

Keyloggers are hardware or software which can capture every keystroke made on a computer or other device. Usually, they aim to gather sensitive data such as login details and passwords, but are capable of tracking any activity carried out on the device. A keylogger is very effective software for monitoring cell phones and is advertised as a tool for catching a cheating spouse. But, remember, you have to gain physical access to the mobile device before you can install it, and your target may be very protective of theirs. If you can access your target’s computer, then it’s simple to install a keylogger and put your worries to rest.

Can You Spy on a Phone Without Access to It?

If you’ve ever wondered whether spying on a mobile phone without having it in hand is achievable, the answer is yes. It’s usually simpler to monitor a mobile phone if you physically have it in hand, but there are a couple of ways you can monitor a mobile phone without owning the actual device. These techniques include:

Phishing

One way to remotely spy on a cell phone without physical access is to use a phishing attack. Phishing is a type of cyber attack that involves tricking people into giving away sensitive information, such as passwords, login credentials, or financial information. It involves sending the target a fake email or message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as their bank or a well-known company, to gain their trust. However, the message will contain a link that, when clicked, installs the spy software on the person’s phone. 

Another way that phishing can be used to spy on people’s phones is through the use of phishing websites or fake login pages. These websites or pages may claim to be legitimate websites or services but are actually designed to capture login credentials or other sensitive information when the target enters them.

Sniffing Wireless Networks

You can also use a sniffing attack to spy on a phone without needing an iPhone or Android spy app remote installation. Sniffing wireless networks is to intercept and analyze data transmitted over a wireless network to gather information or monitor activity. That involves setting up a fake wireless network that the target connects to, which allows you to intercept their traffic and install the spy software on their phone, or by intercepting and analyzing the data transmitted by the device, such as internet browsing history, messages, or other personal information. 

Another way sniffing wireless networks can help you spy on someone’s phone is through man-in-the-middle attacks. A man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack involves intercepting communication between two parties to gather information or manipulate the transmitted data.

Can I Spy on a Phone With Just the Number?

Have you ever pondered the possibility of being able to secretly monitor a particular cell phone just by its number, without having to pay any money for an actual spy software or other tools?

Typically, it’s not possible to just input a phone number and access someone’s phone for surveillance. To spy on someone’s phone, you would usually need to have physical access to the other person’s device, login credentials for their account, or some form of software that can be installed on the target phone—software that allows you to keep tabs on its activities.

Is It Legal to Spy on a Phone Remotely?

Generally, it is illegal to spy on someone’s phone remotely in most cases. The laws surrounding phone surveillance vary by country, but it generally violates privacy to monitor someone’s phone activity without their knowledge. However, the legality of spying on someone’s phone still depends on the jurisdiction in which you are located and the case’s specific circumstances. In some cases, it may be legal to spy on someone’s phone if you are a parent monitoring your child’s activity or an employer monitoring your employees’ activity on company-owned devices. Also, it may be legal for law enforcement agencies to intercept phone calls and messages as part of a criminal investigation. However, in other cases, it may be illegal to spy on someone’s phone without their consent or if you are using the information obtained through spying for nefarious purposes.

Is There a Free App to Spy on Someone Else’s Phone Without Touching It?

There exists a handful of freely distributed mobile observing applications that are useful in spying an Android gadget from a remote location. Caution must be utilized when operating these tools, as they are typically not reliable and often underperform in terms of expectations. Likewise, such applications tend to contain undesired malware that can potentially corrupt the host files. Ideally, targeted observation of the device is achievable through investing in credible applications in the long haul versus utilizing a somewhat inadequate option at no cost to the user, per se.

Conclusion

Spying on a cell phone remotely can be useful for keeping track of someone’s activities and ensuring their safety; however, it might be complex and potentially risky. In this guide, we have explained and simplified the methods through which you can install and operate remote spy apps for Android and iPhone. In addition, choosing a reputable, reliable spying app and being aware of the various methods for installing spy software on a cell phone remotely is important. By following all of our guidelines, you can effectively monitor a cell phone remotely while minimizing the risk of legal or technical problems.

The best part of this whole discussion has to be that you can enjoy these apps for free. However, you enjoy several other benefits if you opt for paid versions. As you already know, these apps have their cons- uMobix has call restrictions and is illegal to own in some locations (same as Eyezy). Eyezy will fail to fetch data deleted from the target phone within two minutes; however, mSpy offers an easy balance with device compatibility, ease of use, and comprehensive monitoring abilities. It’s always the best bet.

Claire York author
Claire York

I am a journalist turned private detective researching most spy apps and their effectiveness. Apps, the internet, technology and cybersecurity have always been of interest to me. I turned this passion into a career after leaving my journalistic career at a well-known firm.

In overseeing all the important content development for this website, I go beyond what is being sold, detailed, advertised, reviewed, and trying to uncover everything there is to know about these applications.