What is smartphone surveillance?
Smartphone surveillance involves secretly monitoring phone activity, including calls, messages, location, microphone, and even camera, without the user’s knowledge. This often happens through powerful spyware like Pegasus, Paragon, and zero-click attacks, which require little or no interaction from the victim.
Real-world examples of surveillance attacks
One major example involves the Pegasus spyware, developed by Israel’s NSO Group. A Saudi student living in Canada received a fake delivery link via SMS. Upon clicking it, his phone was silently infected, granting full remote access to his conversations, photos, and GPS location.
In another case, Paragon spyware was reported to use WhatsApp to silently deliver infected PDFs. Victims were added to group chats, where opening a malicious file triggered the infection—without needing any user action.
Zero-click exploits are even more dangerous. These attacks don’t require the victim to do anything; instead, they exploit hidden vulnerabilities in messaging apps like iMessage or WhatsApp. Kaspersky researchers warn that these methods can enable attackers to access devices remotely and covertly.
How to avoid smartphone surveillance
You can take simple steps to reduce your risk of surveillance. First, keep your phone and apps updated—many exploits rely on outdated software. Second, avoid clicking suspicious links sent via SMS, email, or unknown messaging apps.
Unusual spikes in battery usage or mobile data may also suggest spyware infection. Install reputable security apps like Malwarebytes or Avast Mobile Security to scan and block threats. If you suspect infection, do a factory reset, and only reinstall trusted apps afterward.
Kenya’s government and the Device Management System
In Kenya, the Communications Authority has pushed for a Device Management System (DMS) since 2016, claiming it will help combat fake phones and SIM-box fraud. In April 2023, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of its implementation, despite opposition from Safaricom and digital rights groups.
Critics argue that DMS enables mass surveillance by tracking mobile devices through their IMEI numbers, logging usage patterns, and potentially accessing private data. Privacy activists warn this could be used to monitor political critics, journalists, and civil society.
A recent proposal in the Information & Communications (Amendment) Bill 2025 would further mandate internet providers to track users by assigning meter-like digital IDs and report online activity annually, raising serious concerns about civil liberties.
Why it matters and how you can protect your rights
Smartphone surveillance weakens privacy, undermines trust, and chills free speech. With tools like Pegasus and DMS in play, the line between security and state overreach is becoming dangerously thin—especially in countries with limited transparency.
To protect yourself:
- Stay updated on the legal landscape and support civil society campaigns for digital rights.
- Use encrypted tools like Signal for communication.
- Adjust app permissions and lock down privacy settings on your devices.
In summary
Smartphone surveillance is not science fiction—it’s a reality. From spyware like Pegasus and Paragon to national systems like Kenya’s DMS, the threats are real and growing. But with vigilance, smart habits, and public advocacy, you can protect both your privacy and your voice.
