He always seems to know where you were. He quotes a text you only sent to a friend. That is not a coincidence — and in California it is very likely a crime.

Ava: Michael, this is the one people are almost embarrassed to say out loud, because it sounds paranoid — "I think my phone is watching me." But when it's real, it's terrifying. What is stalkerware, actually?

Michael Benavides, Esq.: It's software — sometimes marketed as "parental" or "employee" monitoring — installed on a device to secretly read messages, listen to calls, log keystrokes, and report location. On a partner's phone, without consent, it's not a gray area. It runs straight into several California statutes at once.

What the law says

Ava: So it's not one law — it's a stack of them.

Michael Benavides, Esq.: That's what makes these cases strong when they're documented properly. And in a family-law or domestic-violence context, the same facts support a restraining order that orders it to stop.

What to do — and what NOT to do

Ava: Preserve, plan, then act — again.

Michael Benavides, Esq.: Every time. Your safety and your evidence, in that order.

Next in Pink Data → Digital Harassment Restraining Orders: the fastest way to make it legally stop.

Pink Data helps California women and families take back control of their data. If you believe you are being tracked or monitored, we can help you preserve the evidence safely and pursue the legal remedies that make it stop. Free, confidential consultation: 707-362-4166.

PINK DATA is a women's- and family-focused brand of the Law Office of Michael Benavides, Esq., California State Bar No. 270714. Ava is an editorial brand voice, not an attorney; all legal analysis is provided by Michael Benavides, Esq. General information about California law, not legal advice; no attorney-client relationship is formed. Verify current statutes. If you are in danger, call 911; the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 and can help with a safety plan. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.