Protecting Yourself From Covert Surveillance: A 2025 Update on Stalkerware Detection in Android Antivirus Apps
For years, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has been sounding the alarm about the insidious threat of stalkerware – apps designed to secretly monitor someone’s activity on thier smartphone. These tools are frequently enough used in abusive relationships to track location, intercept communications, and exert control. If you’re concerned about potential surveillance on your device, understanding the landscape of stalkerware detection is crucial.
We’ve long advocated for antivirus companies to prioritize identifying and clearly labeling these invasive apps. Recently, we partnered with the self-reliant security researchers at AV Comparatives to assess the current state of stalkerware detection in popular Android antivirus solutions.Here’s what our 2025 testing revealed, and what you need to know to protect yourself.
The State of stalkerware Detection: A Mixed Bag, But Improving
Our latest tests show progress, but significant gaps remain. Here’s a breakdown of how leading antivirus apps performed:
* Malwarebytes: Achieved 100% detection of all stalkerware samples tested.
* ESET, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Kaspersky: Detected all but one stalkerware product.
* google Play Protect: Detected onyl 53% of the stalkerware. This is unfortunately not surprising.
* Trend Micro: Detected 59% of the stalkerware.
This represents a noticeable betterment compared to 2021, where only one app (G Data) reached a 100% detection rate, with others lagging behind at 80-85%.However, the performance of Google Play Protect, pre-installed on many Android devices, is particularly concerning. Stalkerware developers often specifically target Google play Protect, attempting to disable its detection during installation.
Fewer Stalkerware Products, But the Threat Remains
Interestingly, we observed a decrease in the number of unique stalkerware products available. In 2020 and 2021, AV Comparatives tested 20 distinct products. In 2025, that number dropped to 17.
Many apps now appear to be variations of the same core product, suggesting consolidation within the stalkerware market. We believe this decline could be due to several factors:
* Increased Regulatory Scrutiny: Actions by regulators like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – including bans on companies like Spyfone – are making it harder for these developers to operate.
* Rise of Alternative tracking Methods: The growing popularity of affordable Bluetooth trackers like Apple AirTags and tiles offers an alternative, albeit still concerning, method for unwanted location tracking.
While the number of unique products may be shrinking, the threat of stalkerware remains very real.
what Does This Mean For You?
If you’re concerned about being monitored, here’s what you can do:
* Install a Robust Antivirus App: Based on our testing, Malwarebytes offers the most comprehensive stalkerware detection currently available. ESET, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Kaspersky are also strong contenders.
* Keep Your Software updated: Regularly update your Android operating system and antivirus app to benefit from the latest security patches.
* Be Vigilant About App Permissions: Carefully review the permissions requested by any app before installing it. Does a flashlight app really need access to your location or contacts?
* Look for Signs of Compromise: Unexplained battery drain, unusual data usage, or unexpected device behavior could indicate the presence of stalkerware.
* Seek Help if You’re in an Abusive Relationship: Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) can provide support and resources.
Dig Deeper: Full Test Results
You can find the complete results of our 2025 stalkerware detection test, including detailed details on each antivirus app’s performance, here: https://www.eff.org/files/2025/11/05/avc_stalkerware_2025.pdf
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