'Stalking' apps let users spy on your cell phone

(KMSP) - It only takes a couple of minutes and a few easy steps for your cell phone to become an open book. Anyone with access to your cell phone can download an app on it that allows them to see, hear and track everything you are doing.

The hacker can pick and choose what part of your phone they would like to spy on, from pictures and websites visited to videos and incoming and outgoing phone calls. The user can also secretly turn on your phone’s microphone and listen in on absolutely everything.

The apps are not available on the Apple or Google Play app store; users have to go to the website of the app company to download the technology. 

For the most part, it is impossible to tell if your phone is bugged and being tracked, according to Hill. 

“It runs so far in the background that you wouldn't know that it's on your device,” Hill says.

Sen. Al Franken (D-Minnesota) has been working to ban these apps, which he claims abusers can put on their victim’s cell phones to track their location.

A spokesperson for Franken said he is planning to reintroduce a bill that would put an end to these stalking apps.

At the moment, the best way to stop spying on your phone is to prevent it altogether. Experts recommend putting in a strong password and never leaving your phone unattended.