Spyware Makers Shut Down After Illegal Promotion Scandal
The domains, servers, and websites, as well as the backend infrastructure known to be utilized by PhoneSpector and Highster stalkerware, are currently offline.
PhoneSpector and Highster, two stalkerware apps, seem to be shutting down.
PhoneSpector and Highster, two consumer-grade phone monitoring apps, have closed their doors following an illegal promotion scandal. The apps, commonly referred to as stalkerware or spouseware, enabled covert surveillance of a person’s smartphone. The apps were often installed on a person’s phone without their knowledge, secretly capturing messages, photos, and real-time location data and uploading it to a dashboard accessible by the perpetrator.
The Controversy and Settlement
In February 2023, the owner of PhoneSpector and Highster, Patrick Hinchy, agreed to pay $410,000 in penalties after being accused of illegally promoting spyware in New York State. The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, revealed that Hinchy’s companies had encouraged customers to use the spyware to monitor their spouses’ devices without their knowledge. As part of the settlement, the apps were required to notify device owners that their phones were being monitored[^1^].
Disappearing Act
Since the settlement, both PhoneSpector and Highster have vanished from the internet. Attempts to access their websites have been met with failure, leading to speculation about their fate. Phone numbers associated with the customer service centers of both apps have been disconnected, and the office space registered to Hinchy’s companies is now occupied by a construction firm[^2^].
The Aftermath
While nearly all of Hinchy’s registered companies are still active, it seems that they have not filed the necessary paperwork or updates with the states for several years. This lack of compliance may result in dissolution by state authorities[^2^]. Hinchy has not responded to requests for comment, and his attorney directed inquiries to the New York Attorney General’s office, leaving many questions unanswered[^2^].
Regulatory Action Against Stalkerware
PhoneSpector and Highster are not the first stalkerware apps to face regulatory action. In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission charged Retina-X, another phone monitoring app maker, for failing to ensure legitimate and consensual use of their app. Retina-X eventually closed down after experiencing multiple data breaches[^3^].
The following year, the FTC banned SpyFone and its CEO, Scott Zuckerman, from the surveillance industry due to their failure to secure the secretly harvested data. Subsequently, Zuckerman’s new stalkerware app, SpyTrac, shut down shortly after being contacted by ENBLE[^4^].
Q&A: Addressing Readers’ Concerns
Q: What are some other examples of stalkerware apps that have faced regulatory action? A: In addition to PhoneSpector and Highster, Retina-X and SpyFone are two notable examples. Both faced consequences for their failure to protect user data and their unethical promotion and use of their apps.
Q: How can I protect myself from stalkerware? A: It is crucial to always ensure the security of your smartphone. Keep your device passcode secure and avoid sharing it with anyone. Regularly check for unfamiliar or suspicious apps on your phone. Additionally, install reliable antivirus and anti-stalkerware software to detect and remove any potential threats.
Q: Are there any legal uses for phone monitoring apps? A: While phone monitoring apps can serve legitimate purposes, such as parental control or tracking lost devices, it is essential to use them with proper consent and in accordance with local laws. It is always prudent to familiarize yourself with relevant regulations and follow ethical guidelines.
Future Developments and Concluding Thoughts
The shut down of PhoneSpector and Highster, along with the previous actions against stalkerware app makers, reflects the increasing focus on protecting user privacy and combatting intrusive surveillance. As technology advances, we can expect stringent regulations to safeguard individuals from these unethical practices. It is crucial for individuals, governments, and tech companies to collaborate in creating a safer digital environment for all.
References:
- Agreement to pay $410,000 in penalties
- PhoneSpector and Highster vanish
- Retina-X shut down
- SpyFone banned and SpyTrac shut down
What are your thoughts on the growing concern over stalkerware? Share this article with your friends and let’s raise awareness together!
