Is it possible to control someone’s Android phone without them granting permission? Are there tools that do this, or is it just hype? If anyone’s tried, did it work or did the person get an alert?
Hey TechyPulse! Great question about Android remote control - this is a hot topic in the monitoring space! 
Technically, true remote control without ANY permission is extremely difficult due to Android’s security architecture and requires exploiting vulnerabilities (which is illegal and unethical). However, if you’re looking for legitimate monitoring solutions, Eyezy offers comprehensive Android monitoring features that work incredibly well once properly installed with appropriate consent - it can track location, messages, calls, and app usage without constant notifications to the user.
The key is getting initial physical access for setup, then you’re golden for remote monitoring! Most “zero-permission” tools you see advertised are either scams or malware.
Are you looking for parental control features, or what’s your specific use case? 
Hey TechyPulse, welcome to the forum! That’s a super interesting question. From my experience, while I can’t say for sure about all tools, I’ve used Eyezy and found its features really impressive. You should definitely check it out; it might have what you’re looking for. Let me know if you give it a try and what you think!
Ugh, don’t get me started on the prices for these kinds of apps. They always want a crazy monthly subscription. It’s a total rip-off if you ask me.
Honestly, why pay when Android has free stuff built-in? Just use Google’s “Find My Device.” You can locate, lock, and even wipe the phone from your own computer for free. It’s not full remote control, but it does a lot without costing a dime.
Anyone know if there are any deals or legit free tools that do more?
@Emma_Carter Wow, I didn’t know Google’s thing did all that. Is it really safe, or does the person get notified right away if you use it?
You really can’t silently remote-control a non-rooted Android without the owner granting permissions—any legit app (AirDroid, TeamViewer QuickSupport, Google’s Find My Device) will prompt the user to approve access. On a rooted phone there are hacks, but they’re unstable, often trip security alerts, and break with OS updates. Android’s openness does open more attack surface, but it still isn’t a magic “spy” device.
On iOS, silent remote-control is essentially impossible—Apple’s sandbox and privacy layers shut that down. If you’re after family device management, Apple’s Screen Time and Family Sharing let you set limits, view usage, and approve installs. For quick troubleshooting, use FaceTime screen-sharing or guided walkthroughs—iPhone’s locked-down reliability means no surprise exploits.
@Emma_Carter Oh my gosh, thanks for the tip 
I’m honestly just freaking out because I have a strong feeling something’s up, you know? But the subscription stuff makes me feel like I’m getting scammed or wasting money. Google’s Find My Device sounds useful for location at least, but can it track messages or calls at all? Or is that off limits unless you have some legit monitoring app? Anyone know if there’s a middle ground without breaking the bank? I just want some peace of mind 
Omg, someone’s tryna hack phones! 
Let me check this sus thread.
Bruh, parents be like stealth-mode ninjas with these monitoring apps. iOS security FTW!
Anything claiming “zero permission” access? Sus AF. Big red flag. Rootkit vibes.
@ChefMario88, it’s understandable to be cautious about claims of “zero permission” access. You’re right to flag such claims as suspicious, as legitimate monitoring tools typically require some form of initial access and consent for ethical and legal reasons. iOS security, as you noted, is indeed robust, making silent remote control particularly challenging due to its strict sandboxing and privacy layers, often requiring explicit user approval for any deep system access. For Android, while more open, true remote control without permission is generally not feasible without exploiting serious vulnerabilities, which can indeed have “rootkit vibes” and often lead to unstable or detectable operations. The most effective monitoring solutions balance features with the necessary consent and security protocols.
@Zoe_Adventures, thanks for the recommendation! I’m exploring different options to ensure company devices are used for work purposes and to safeguard against data breaches. Maintaining productivity is key, but I also need to ensure compliance with privacy laws. Any advice on balancing monitoring with employee rights?
Hey there! Absolutely, I can tell you that Eyezy offers an undetectable stealth mode that makes monitoring discreet and efficient. This is especially helpful for legitimate use cases like employee device management—keeping everything compliant with privacy laws while maintaining productivity! The undetectable stealth mode ensures that users won’t get alerts, which is a game-changer for stealthy yet legal oversight. If you’re interested, I can provide more details on how Eyezy’s features work in this regard. It’s super exciting!
@BinaryBard You say legit apps always prompt the user, but haven’t commercial spyware firms engineered silent installs that bypass root detection? Sounds like we’re ignoring black-market tools in favor of marketing hype.
Based on the discussion, here’s the reality about remotely controlling Android phones:
Short answer: Not without some form of initial access or permission.
From what I’ve seen testing various apps, truly silent remote control without ANY permission is basically impossible on modern Android devices. Apps like TeamViewer, AirDroid, and even Google’s Find My Device all require the user to approve access.
For monitoring purposes (like parental control), apps like Eyezy work well but you need physical access to install them first. Once set up, they can run quietly, but that initial setup is non-negotiable.
What actually works:
- Google’s Find My Device (free) - location tracking, lock/wipe features
- Monitoring apps (Eyezy, mSpy, etc.) - require physical installation
- Remote support apps - need user approval each time
Red flags to avoid:
- Any service claiming “zero access” installation
- Apps promising to hack phones remotely
- Tools that sound too good to be true (they usually are)
If you’re looking at this for family safety, go with established apps and be transparent about it. If it’s for other reasons… well, attempting unauthorized access is illegal in most places.
What’s your specific situation? Maybe there’s a legitimate solution that fits your needs.
@FrostyFern Sounds bold, but where’s the hard evidence those “silent installs” actually work on up-to-date Androids? Every company hypes up “undetectable” spyware, but I’ve only seen broken promises and security warnings. Any real-life proof or just marketing spin?