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The Internet is an invaluable tool, with Android devices being the most popular path to access the web among teens. Children can gain access to numerous learning resources at the click of a button, keep up with friends, and enjoy the best entertainment with these devices.
Nonetheless, the digital era has a dark side, one where cyberbullying, sexual predation, and phonography run rampant. According to research, 500,000 online sexual predators are active each day.
Thus, as a parent, it’s only natural that you have a solid impulse to protect your children. But how can you achieve such a goal when you aren’t with your ward all day long? You don’t have to worry, as spyware is designed to be your eyes and ears 24/7.
In this article, we’ll get you acclimated with the best spy apps for Android, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
Let’s dive in!
- Is It Possible to Spy on an Android Phone Without Touching It?
- How to Spy on Android for Free?
- Method 1: Timeline By Google
- Method 2: Android Device Manager
- What About the Websites That Claim to Spy on Android Without Installing Software?
- The Best Way to Spy on Android Is to Use a Spy App
- How to Choose the Best App to Spy on an Android Cell Phone?
- Top 10 Android Spy Applications: Best Hidden Spy Apps for Android
- mSpy
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- eyeZy
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Cocospy
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Spyic
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- FlexiSPY
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Hoverwatch
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- iKeyMonitor
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Qustodio
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- XNSPY
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Mobistealth
- Compatibility
- List of Features
- Pricing
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- FAQ
- Are Spy Apps Illegal?
- Can I Spy on a Phone With Just the Number?
- Does Factory Reset Deletes Android Spyware?
- Will the Person Know That I Am Monitoring Their Phone With a Spy App?
- Final Thoughts
Is It Possible to Spy on an Android Phone Without Touching It?
Yes, it’s possible to spy on an Android phone without touching it. However, it’s crucial to note there might be several limitations in the mix.
To monitor someone’s Android without gaining physical access, you must know their Google logins. If you can’t get these credentials, you can try “phishing.”
Phishing involves creating a duplicate Google Account login web page and sending its corresponding URL to the target’s device. When the target taps this link and inserts their logins, you’ll see their details immediately.
How to Spy on Android for Free?
Can you spy on an Android phone without access to it for free? Yes. Also, you don’t have to pay a dime while at it.
Here are some ways you can track your child’s Android device for free:
Method 1: Timeline By Google
Google is reputable for its apps, being among the best at their trade, and Google Maps is no different. You can check your kid’s real-time whereabouts using the “My Timeline” option on this application.
If you wish to utilize this feature, you’ll need an active Internet connection on the target’s device, its location functionality toggled on, and its operational Google account information.
Set the ball rolling with these steps:
- Access the Google Maps site on your browser.
- Login using the target’s connected Google Account credentials.
- Select the Menu icon to reveal possible actions.
- Proceed to select My Timeline.
- Completing this action reveals the timeline of where your child has traveled.
- Select Menu → Your Places → Visited for an overview of recently visited locations.
Method 2: Android Device Manager
How can I spy on an android without installing software on the target phone? This query rings in many parents’ heads, and thankfully there’s a free way to do it.
You can monitor your child’s device using the inbuilt Android device manager. Although it doesn’t have top-shelf spying add-ons, it trumps the option of having nothing.
You can perform simple functions such as tracking the phone’s last updated location, locking a device, making a device ring, and erasing smartphone data.
The app’s remote location tracking feature serves as a spying functionality, so you know where your child is 24/7.
How do you track your kid’s smartphone using the Android Device Manager? Here’s a quick guide to help you out:
- Visit google.com/android/devicemanager from a web browser.
- Insert the Gmail account information associated with your kid’s Android.
- Afterward, the page reveals the device’s name and last seen location. You also have the option to perform other actions such as erasing data or ringing the phone.
What About the Websites That Claim to Spy on Android Without Installing Software?
Sites claiming to offer a spying solution that monitors your child’s device without installation are most likely scams. It’s best to avoid dealing with or downloading files from such platforms, as you can only spy on an Android device by installing spyware.
You’ll find sites offering you the opportunity to track a device using a Bluetooth connection or an image with a downloadable link.
What’s wrong here? Bluetooth connections have a limited operating area, and you’d need access to the target device to establish a link.
After opening the file, the imaging method promises unrestricted access to a target phone.
However, there’s one issue; you must pay a one-time fee to enjoy free upgrades forever. You can’t demand a refund if the software malfunctions, as this payment is non-refundable.
So, it’s best to avoid platforms with the caption Android spy app with remote installation.
The Best Way to Spy on Android Is to Use a Spy App
The functions of free spying alternatives are limited. If you want to spy on an Android, we advise getting a spy app. These apps take only a few minutes to install and grant you access to the following features:
- Location Tracking
Get real-time information about your kid’s location and their visited places. You know exactly where your child is and enjoy the peace of mind with such knowledge.
- SMS Tracking
Peek into your child’s texts and get real-time alerts on all incoming and outgoing messages. Now, you’re sure that their chats are appropriate and safe.
Ensure your kid isn’t a victim of cyberbullying or mixing with the wrong crowd. Pedophiles looking to take advantage of unsuspecting minors often initiate contact on social media. So, rest easy knowing you have a handle on things and your child doesn’t fall victim to predators on famed platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat.
DID YOU KNOW: 1 in 25 children between the ages of 10 and 17 receive sexual solicitation from predators online.
- Email Monitoring
Monitoring your child’s emails can help keep them safe from hacks, as most cybercriminals use this avenue to infiltrate victims’ devices. It also prevents your kid from getting introduced to inappropriate content.
- Internet History
What websites has your child been visiting during their Internet time? Get this information and more with top hidden spy apps for Android.
You can also block access to inappropriate or insecure platforms remotely. How convenient!
- Geofencing
Geofencing is one of the more advanced spyware for Android features. It allows you to set a parameter and receive a notification should your child leave or enter this location.
How to Choose the Best App to Spy on an Android Cell Phone?
We’ve spent time and resources to create the crème de la crème of the spy world, bringing you the best ten in our write-up.
How did we sieve them out? By considering these factors:
- Compatibility
What’s its compatibility range? The best spy apps are compatible with a massive catalog of android devices, often from OS versions 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich to the latest systems.
Installing a spy app on incompatible devices can lead to functionality issues.
- Useful Features
The best spy apps offer useful spyware features like location tracking, social media monitoring, keylogger, phone call, message, and email tracking.
Also, these applications should offer advanced tracking functionalities such as screen and ambiance recording.
- Price
You shouldn’t have to break the bank to protect your child from harm. Therefore, a top spy app needs to be affordable. Also, you should be able to save more funds by buying longer bundles.
- Stealth Mode
The best spy apps operate without notifying the target device. They function stealthily in the background, monitoring calls, messages, internet activity, and GPS locations without your kid knowing.
- Easy of Use and Installation
How easy is installation? It shouldn’t be rocket science, and you should complete this process within minutes. Top spy apps are also easy to use, with many software offering technical support to aid set-up.
- Support
Spy apps can be challenging to navigate due to the sheer number of advanced tracking features they feature.
Your choice must offer an excellent support service to render help if you encounter hiccups during usage.
- Refund Policy
Your spy application should offer a refund policy. If you find the product unsatisfactory, you can get a full or partial refund, depending on the application’s stipulated T&C’s.
Top 10 Android Spy Applications: Best Hidden Spy Apps for Android
The Internet fields a ton of Android spy apps. However, we’ve done in-depth research to sieve out alternatives that execute spying-related activities on Android quickly and stealthily.
Top mentions include:
mSpy
mSpy ranks #1 when it comes to spyware, providing its users with outstanding spying features at the tap of a button.
Satisfaction is the main theme here as the app poses an 87% review rating amongst patrons, one of the highest in the market. Thanks to its unique features, helpful support, and affordable pricing, mSpy takes our top spot.
Compatibility
mSpy is compatible with Android 4.0+.
List of Features
● Manage call logs
● Text message tracking
● Social media monitoring on Skype, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat
● Keylogger
● GPS location tracker
● App parental control
● Screen recording
● Browser history and site control
● Email access
● Contacts and calendar access
Pricing
mSpy provides its subscribers with three different plans to access its premium features. You can select any one of the following subscriptions:
● 1 Month: $48.99
● 3 Months: $27.99/month
● 12 Months: $11.66/month
NOTE: These prices are discounted and available only to new subscribers, and charges will revert to regular prices on renewals.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● It doesn’t require rooting
● Easy installation process
● Excellent support
● Great Refund Policy
Disadvantages
● Lacks a few advanced monitoring tools such as call recording and remote camera activation.
● Advanced support such as phone support and mAssistance costs extra.
eyeZy
If you wish to get the best spy app for Android without access to the target phone, consider adding eyeZy to your list.
This app lets you monitor your kids’ digital footprints undetected with message and internet activity tracking, all at an affordable price.
Compatibility
Compatible with Android 4.0 and newer.
List of Features
● Keywords alerts
● Social media monitoring
● Calendar manager
● Connection manager and blocker
● Keystroke capture
● Screen recording
● GPS location monitoring
● Call monitoring
Pricing
● 1 Month: $47.99
● 3 Months: $27.99/month
● 12 Months: $9.99/month
Discounted prices are available to new patrons only.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● User-friendly installation and set-up
● Sophisticated Keylogger software
● Bank-grade encryption
● 24/7 customer support
Disadvantages
● Tracking multiple devices can be expensive
● No trial plan available
Cocospy
Cocospy is the answer to the question, “How to spy on an Android phone without having the phone?”
This spyware is packed with tracking features, and rooting the target device unlocks advanced options such as Geofencing.
Compatibility
Cocospy is compatible with Android 4.0 and higher.
List of Features
● Call tracking
● Social media tracking
● SMS monitoring
● Browser history tracking
● Sim tracking
● GPS tracking and Geofencing support
● Stealth mode
● Keylogger
Pricing
Basic
● 1 Month: $39.99
● 3 Months: $59.99
● 12 Months: $99.99
Premium
● 1 Month: $49.99
● 3 Months: $69.99
● 12 Months: $119.99
Family
● 1 Month: $69.99
● 3 Months: $99.99
● 12 Months: $199.99
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● No rooting is required to access most features
● 60-day money-back guarantee
● Sublime support system
● Easy sign-up procedure
Disadvantages
● No free trial package
● Lacks call recording and screenshot features
Spyic
Spyic is excellent spyware for Android, requiring only 5 minutes of installation time. This app takes up 2MB of space, allowing you to keep tabs on your child’s social media activities. Location tracking, call monitoring, and SMS management is also part of this app’s deal.
Compatibility
Spyic functions on Android versions 4.0 and newer.
List of Features
● Call tracking
● Social media tracking
● Sim monitoring
● GPS tracking and Geofencing support
● Stealth mode
● SMS monitoring
● Browser history monitoring
● Keylogger
Pricing
Basic
● 1 Month: $39.99
● 3 Months: $59.99
● 12 Months: $99.99
Premium
● 1 Month: $49.99
● 3 Months: $69.99
● 12 Months: $119.99
Family
● 1 Month: $69.99
● 3 Months: $99.99
● 12 Months: $199.99
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Features are accessible without the necessity to root the target device
● Friendly UI
● Keylogger and Geofencing supported
● Multiple pricing options
Disadvantages
● Pricing is slightly expensive when compared to others
● Customer service needs revamping
FlexiSPY
It’s an Android spy app with a free remote installation support service. FlexiSPY also takes the cake when it comes to spying features.
You can perform advanced actions such as monitoring social media and message activities, intercepting calls, and keystrokes logging.
Compatibility
Compatible with Android versions 4.0 and higher.
List of Features
● Phone call recording, interception, and monitoring
● Environment recording
● Social media monitoring and call recording
● SMS keyword deletion
● Email and SMS manager
● Location tracking and Geo-fencing support
● Keylogger
● Media monitoring
● Browser history and website monitoring
● Remote uninstallation, update, deactivation, and restart
● Run in hidden mode
● Prevent app uninstallation
● Remotely change software features
Pricing
Lite
● 1 Month: $29.95
Premium
● 1 Month: $68
● 3 Months: $99
● 12 Months: $149
Extreme
● 1 Month: $199
● 3 Months: $349
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Multiple spying features are accessible without rooting the target phone
● Remote installation service
● Excellent support
● Sim change notification
● Fast and global payment system
Disadvantages
● One of the pricier spy apps on the market, but its plethora of spying features more than makes up for its high cost.
● 20MB storage space
● 10 minute installation time
● Instagram and Twitter tracking are unavailable
Hoverwatch
Stay in the know about your child’s digital activities and interactions with Hoverwatch. Have the undetectable spyware capture selfies every time the Android smartphone unlocks, with tracking information available for up to 5 smartphones.
Compatibility
Compatible with Android devices running OS version 4.0 or higher.
List of Features
● Web activity monitoring
● To-do list and calendar tracking
● Sim card change notifications
● Keylogger
● Contact monitoring
● Android screenshots
● Social media monitoring
● Text messages, emails, and calls monitoring
● GPS tracking
● Automatic front camera photos
● Apps and media tracking
Pricing
Personal
● 1 Month: $24.95
● 3 Months: $59.95
● 12 Months: $99.95
Professional
● 1 Month: $49.95
● 3 Months: $99.95
● 12 Months: $199.95
Business
● 1 Month: $149.95
● 3 Months: $299.95
● 12 Months: $499.95
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Track up to five devices on the Family plan and 25 devices on the Business plan
● Most features are accessible without rooting the target phone
● Superior tracking software
Disadvantages
● A little expensive
● It offers no unique features
iKeyMonitor
iKeyMonitor is one of the best undetectable free spy apps for Android. With a “free trial” in the mix, you can also opt for a premium subscription to unlock its full tracking features.
Compatibility
This spyware is compatible with Android OS versions 2.3 and higher.
List of Features
Free Basic
● Call and message tracking
● Geofencing and GPS tracking
● Contacts and Calendar tracking
● Wi-Fi history
● Notes, voice memos, and reminders access
Add-ons
● Remote configuration
● Keylogger
● Keylogger in native languages
● Screenshots capture
● Website history
● Social media and SMS monitoring
● Listen to surroundings
● Call recording
● Block applications
● Remotely capture photos
● Clipboard and media access
● Email monitoring
● Logs to Email/FTP
Pricing
Family (Free Basics + Add-ons)
● 3 Days: $9.99
● 1 Month (on-demand): $16.66
Business (Add-ons included)
● 1 Month: $9.9
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Easy sign-up procedure
● Round the clock support
● Offers a free plan
● Fast synchronization
Disadvantages
● Lacks app blocking support
● Some key tracking features require Rooting
Qustodio
Qustodio helps you control your child’s digital time with its web activity monitoring, ensuring they are spending this period appropriately.
You also get to protect them against predators and cyberbullying by staying in the know.
Compatibility
This spy app is compatible with Android 6.0 and higher.
List of Features
● Parental control of content and applications
● Time limits
● Web activity monitoring
● Location tracking
● SMS and calls track
● Real-time activity alerts, reports, and SOS
● Social media monitoring
● Call blocking
Care Plus offers the following perks:
● Ongoing check-ins
● Personalized help
● Priority phone support
● Available in English & Spanish
Pricing
Small (Up to 5 Devices)
● 1 Month: $4.78 + Care Plus ($12.99)
Medium (Up to 10 Devices)
● 1 Month (Care Plus inclusive): $8.08
Large (Up to 15 Devices)
● 1 Month (Care Plus inclusive): $11.5
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● App blocker
● Excellent UI
● Superior website blocker
● Intuitive site layout
Disadvantages
● Limited social media tracking
● Subscriptions are a tad steep
XNSPY
If you’d like distinct functionalities on an Android spy app, XNSPY is your best bet. Using XNSPY, recording the immediate surroundings of your kid while they’re out and about is feasible.
What’s more? The subscription plans available don’t cost a hand and a leg.
Compatibility
Parents can utilize XNSPY on Android versions 4.0 and higher.
List of Features
● SMS and IMS tracking
● Call history tracking
● Track daily footprint
● Track web activity, including bookmarks and searches
● Multimedia access and monitoring
● Screen recording
● Remote control
● Screen capture
● Surroundings and call recording
● Phone lock and data wipe
● Location tracking and Geo-fencing support
● Keylogger
● Run in the background
● Watchlists and instant alerts
Pricing
Basic
● 1 Month: $29.99
● 3 Months: $13.99/month
● 12 Months: $4.99/month
Premium
● 1 Month: $35.99
● 3 Months: $19.99/month
● 12 Months: $7.49/month
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Easy to use
● Detailed reports
● Multiple remote actions
● Over 10 social media tracking supported
Disadvantages
● Live Chat isn’t available 24/7
● Expensive plans
Mobistealth
Track your child’s device without rooting it with this superior tracking software. Monitor their social media accounts with the anti-delete spying app, and get to provide digital safety for your child.
Compatibility
Mobistealth supports Android 6.0 and higher
List of Features
● SMS and call tracking
● Location tracking
● Social media messaging tracking
● Keylogger
● Call recording
● Surround recording
● Email monitoring
● App and media monitoring
● Contact and web activity monitoring
Pricing
Pro
● 1 Month: $59.99
● 3 Months: $79.99
● 12 Months: $149.99
Pro-X
● 1 Month: $69.99
● 3 Months: $99.99
● 12 Months: $179.99
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
● Affordable spy app
● Multiple pricing options
● Free updates
Disadvantages
● Assistance installation service isn’t available
● Lacks multiple advanced spyware features
FAQ
Are Spy Apps Illegal?
In scenarios between parents and minors, it’s legal to employ such tools to minimize the harmful effects of the digital world.
Can I Spy on a Phone With Just the Number?
No, you can’t spy on a phone with just the number, and you’d need to install spy software on the target device to track its activities.
Does Factory Reset Deletes Android Spyware?
A factory reset will delete an Android spy application. However, some apps can mimic system software in rooted devices and negate deletion even after a factory reset.
Will the Person Know That I Am Monitoring Their Phone With a Spy App?
They won’t know you’re monitoring their phone with spyware for Android, as spy apps run in the background and leave no notifications.
Final Thoughts
Smartphones are essential tools in today’s world, with students needing them to stay on top of their studies and social life. However, it harbors a dark side and can leave children spiraling without proper guidance.
It’s up to you as a parent to protect your children from abuse. Nowadays, such protection involves knowing who your child talks to online, their whereabouts, their online activities – you know, everything you’d need to ensure their digital safety.
Our list of the 10 best spy applications for Android can help you navigate troubled waters. Thus, consider buying a plan on your preferred medium.
