Urgent warning for Android users that apps may be spying on them – the symbols on your phone to watch out for

ANDROID users have been warned that apps on their cell phone could be spying on them.

But a function recently added to the phones by developers at Google will warn users when apps are accessing your data.

The function is quite similar to one that currently exists on Apple's rival iPhone.

A symbol on the phone now notifies users when the microphone or camera has been turned on.

A recent Android 12 update introduced the Google function to phones.

The new indicator displays in the form of an icon in the top-right corner of the screen.

When an app tries to access either your camera or microphone, you'll see an icon for each.

It prohibits apps from listening in or viewing you through your camera without your knowledge.

For a sense of safety, users can check a history of which apps have used your camera, microphone or location.

Users will also be able to check and see when these functions were enabled, if they were.

The new Privacy Dashboard in Settings has this information.

In your Quick Settings, you may also completely disable your microphone and camera.

It's important to remember that just because you see an icon, doesn't mean something is wrong.

Instagram, for example, is one of those apps that need your camera.

However, if you detect an unusual app using your camera, it could indicate that you're being watched.

Numerous apps that improperly access the camera on Android phones have been discovered, according to cyber specialists.

As a result, make sure you're on Android 12 and that you're on the lookout for anything suspicious.

Check the app's permissions in Settings if you feel something is wrong.

There's also the option to limit access to select apps to your microphone or camera.

In the case that you're really concerned, you could remove the app entirely from your Android device.