Over 55% of online affairs start on messaging apps like WhatsApp, making the best WhatsApp spy app a must for anyone wanting the ability to monitor and have peace of mind. Whether you’re a concerned parent, a business owner protecting data, or suspecting infidelity, WhatsApp spy apps can provide the answers you need. These tools let you monitor WhatsApp calls, shared media, and even locations.
However, not all WhatsApp tracker apps are reliable. Some offer features like real-time chat monitoring and alerts, while others fall short. That’s why I’ve tested and reviewed the six best WhatsApp spy apps you can rely on this year.
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- 1. mSpy — The Best WhatsApp Spy App Overall
- 2. Spynger — The Top WhatsApp Spy App for Catching a Cheating Partner
- 4.SpyBubble Pro — Top WhatsApp Spy App for Retrieving Deleted Messages and Media
- 5. Phonsee — Most Affordable WhatsApp Tracker App
- 6. KidsGuard for WhatsApp — Top WhatsApp Spy App Designed Specifically for Parental Monitoring
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- 1. mSpy — The Best WhatsApp Spy App Overall
- 2. Spynger — The Top WhatsApp Spy App for Catching a Cheating Partner
- 4.SpyBubble Pro — Top WhatsApp Spy App for Retrieving Deleted Messages and Media
- 5. Phonsee — Most Affordable WhatsApp Tracker App
- 6. KidsGuard for WhatsApp — Top WhatsApp Spy App Designed Specifically for Parental Monitoring
- Show Full Guide
The 6 Best WhatsApp Spy Apps Ranked
- mSpy — The Best WhatsApp Spy App Overall
- Spynger — The Best WhatsApp Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
- uMobix — Easy-to-Use WhatsApp Spy App for Beginners
- SpyBubble Pro — Best WhatsApp Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
- Phonsee — Cheapest WhatsApp Tracker App
- KidsGuard for WhatsApp — Best WhatsApp Spy App Specially Made for Parental Control
The Best Spy Apps for WhatsApp Reviewed
I’ve tested the top-ranking spy apps for WhatsApp to see which ones truly deliver. From real-time chat monitoring to location tracking, here’s what stood out and why they’re worth considering.
1. mSpy — The Best WhatsApp Spy App Overall
- Starting Price: $11.66/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 10-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
After testing several apps, mSpy came out as the best provider for tracking WhatsApp activity. What impressed me most was how intuitive the dashboard is — it synced data from the device I was monitoring every five minutes during my trial, so the updates felt almost real-time. Whether I was checking messages or viewing shared media, everything was displayed clearly, complete with timestamps.
In my mSpy review, one feature that truly stood out was the ability to recover deleted messages. During testing, I purposely deleted WhatsApp texts and then checked the mSpy dashboard. Not only did it log the texts, but the timestamps provided context to understand when the conversation happened. This is invaluable for catching suspicious activity or confirming peace of mind.
mSpy also wins with its geolocation tracker. The live map view of the device’s location was surprisingly accurate, and the geofencing feature worked flawlessly. I tested it by setting a boundary radius of 500 feet (152 meters), and the moment the device crossed the virtual boundary, I got an instant alert. I found this feature great for monitoring kids or checking your partner’s whereabouts.
The stealth mode deserves a special mention — it’s completely invisible on the other device. The person being monitored has no clue it’s there, which is crucial for discreet tracking. While jailbreaking or rooting can unlock additional features, I discovered the app still performed exceptionally well without these steps.
Besides WhatsApp, it’s also one of the best Snapchat spy apps around, and you can monitor other platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Telegram, Viber, KIK, LINE, Skype, and more.
Pros
- 100% invisible tracker app
- Logs deleted WhatsApp messages with full details
- Incoming and outgoing WhatsApp call logs and contact list
- Accurate geofencing with instant alerts
- User-friendly dashboard
- 10-day money-back guarantee as a test run
Cons
- No free trial (only a demo version)
- Expensive monthly plan
2. Spynger — The Top WhatsApp Spy App for Catching a Cheating Partner
- Starting Price: $10.83/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
Spynger is my top pick for anyone looking to monitor a potentially unfaithful partner on WhatsApp. It’s also ranked as one of the best cheating spouse tracker apps in 2025. Its features are laser-focused on uncovering hidden activities, with keyword alerts and deleted message recovery leading the charge. During testing, I found its keyword flagging more effective than mSpy, which required manual searching — Spynger automatically highlighted conversations containing the flagged terms. Overall, filtering was more specific, giving me fewer but more relevant notifications.
One feature that truly impressed me during my Spynger review was its ability to recover deleted WhatsApp chats and media. I tested this by deleting chats, photos, and videos on the other phone, and Spynger restored everything, even disappearing messages, with minimal delay. It’s a clear winner for anyone worried about WhatsApp cheating messages. However, I noticed that the app’s geofencing feature isn’t as precise as other apps like mSpy — it allows you to set larger boundaries, but the lack of finer control can be frustrating, so it may not be the best option to track a phone’s location. That said, its WhatsApp tracking capabilities are robust enough to compensate, providing detailed interaction logs, including timestamps and message durations.
Like mSpy, Spynger’s stealth mode was another highlight. Spynger remains undetectable even during antivirus scans, making sure the target user never knows they’re being monitored. The WhatsApp dashboard is easy to use, making the entire experience easy-going for beginners and experts alike.
Pros
- Monitoring of 16+ social apps, including WhatsApp
- Keyword alerts customized for WhatsApp conversations
- Tracks timestamps and interaction patterns within WhatsApp
- Stealth mode for undetectable monitoring
- Intuitive WhatsApp-specific interface
- 14-day refund policy
Cons
- No call recording feature
- Geofencing isn’t as precise as competitors
3. uMobix — User-Friendly WhatsApp Spy App for Beginners
- Starting Price: $11.66/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
uMobix is perfect if you’re new to WhatsApp spy apps and want something straightforward. Setting it up took me about 10 minutes, and the step-by-step instructions made it feel like I couldn’t mess it up, even if I tried. Once installed, I could check out WhatsApp chats, group messages, call logs, and even shared media right from its clean, easy-to-use dashboard.
One thing I noticed is that the updates for WhatsApp activity aren’t as quick as mSpy’s. It takes about 10-15 minutes to sync new messages or calls. While it’s not instant, it’s still good enough for keeping tabs without constantly checking. I also liked how uMobix lists the most contacted numbers, along with timestamps, which gives you a clear picture of who’s being chatted with the most.
Navigating uMobix for me was super simple. The WhatsApp section is organized and doesn’t leave you digging around to find what you need. The only thing I didn’t love was the blurry previews for photos and videos until they were fully downloaded. It’s a small hiccup, but you can still see enough to get an idea of what’s being shared.
Besides its user-friendly WhatsApp monitoring, uMobix also tracks text messages, GPS locations, social media activity, and browsing history. It even allows you to monitor phone calls, check app usage, and access media like photos and videos, giving you a comprehensive view of the target phone’s activity. Overall, if you’re looking for an app that keeps things simple and easy, uMobix does the job well.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup for WhatsApp (great for first-timers)
- Clean dashboard with a dedicated WhatsApp section
- Timestamps and frequent contacts for extra clarity
- Fair pricing structure
- No tech skills needed to use it
Cons
- Not instant updates (takes 10-15 minutes)
- Blurry WhatsApp media previews until fully downloaded
4.SpyBubble Pro — Top WhatsApp Spy App for Retrieving Deleted Messages and Media
- Starting Price: $12.49/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 30-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
SpyBubble Pro is my choice for the best retrieving app for deleted WhatsApp messages and media. If you’ve ever wanted to recover conversations or files someone has intentionally erased, this app is your go-to. I tested its WhatsApp recovery feature extensively, and it impressed me by pulling up deleted texts and media files like photos and videos in a matter of minutes.
The process was quite easy: after syncing with the other phone, SpyBubble Pro displayed deleted messages alongside active chats, making it easy to distinguish between the two. Compared to providers like mSpy, SpyBubble Pro’s recovery tools are more robust, particularly when it comes to recovering media files. While mSpy excels in live monitoring, SpyBubble Pro fills the gap for users focused on deleted content.
That said, the app isn’t perfect. The interface, while functional, felt a bit clunky to me at times, especially when navigating through large amounts of recovered data. However, its ability to retrieve even long-deleted files makes up for this minor hiccup. It also updates recovered content frequently, so you won’t miss any new deletions.
SpyBubble Pro also offers additional features like tracking WhatsApp calls, shared links, and contact lists. While not as beginner-friendly as uMobix, it’s straightforward enough for most users to get the hang of quickly. If recovering deleted WhatsApp content is your priority, SpyBubble Pro is your best bet. However, while it’s one of the best spy apps for Android you can get, some features, like remote access, aren’t available on iOS.
Pros
- Excellent at recovering deleted WhatsApp messages and media
- Tracks WhatsApp calls and shared links
- Powerful for seeing altered content
- SIM card replacement alert
- Undetectable automated updates are available
Cons
- Lacks real-time WhatsApp updates
- The recovery feature can take longer for large files
- No geofencing or advanced location tools
- Quite expensive services compared to the rivals
5. Phonsee — Most Affordable WhatsApp Tracker App
- Starting Price: $8.85/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
Phonsee stood out for me as the budget-friendly option for users looking to track WhatsApp activity without breaking the bank. Despite its affordability, it provides a solid array of features that make it a reliable choice for monitoring. When I analyzed and tested Phonsee, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it tracked WhatsApp chats, media, and call logs. The app organizes all the information neatly, so you don’t need to hunt through confusing menus to find what you need.
The WhatsApp tracking dashboard is simple and easy to navigate, showing sent and received messages, timestamps, and even shared media files. While it doesn’t update as fast as pricier options like the top-ranked mSpy, the data was still accurate and refreshed at regular intervals. Compared to services like uMobix, Phonsee requires a more involved setup on the other phone, but this is a small trade-off for the price point. From my personal experience, it didn’t take that much time.
One drawback I noticed was that Phonsee’s interface lacks the sleek polish of competitors. It’s functional, but it could use an update to feel more modern. On the plus side, this simplicity makes it beginner-friendly. The app also has limited support for recovering deleted WhatsApp messages, which might be a dealbreaker for users focused on deleted content. However, it’s a fantastic option for basic tracking needs.
Beyond WhatsApp, Phonsee also tracks other apps like Instagram and Facebook, along with call logs and location. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a dependable WhatsApp tracker, I’d recommend Phonsee as an excellent pick for value for money.
Pros
- A budget-friendly option for WhatsApp tracking
- Tracks WhatsApp chats, calls, and media
- 24/7 customer support
- GPS tracking and geofencing are available
- Supports other social media apps tracking
Cons
- Interface feels outdated
- Requires installation on the target device
- Slightly slower updates than premium apps
- No keyword alerts for WhatsApp and other apps
6. KidsGuard for WhatsApp — Top WhatsApp Spy App Designed Specifically for Parental Monitoring
- Starting Price: $24.99/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices:
- Guarantee: 30-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
KidsGuard for WhatsApp is a dedicated tool that makes keeping tabs on your child’s WhatsApp activity simple and effective and is one of the best parental control apps of 2025. From monitoring chats and call logs to viewing shared photos and videos, it covers all the essentials a parent might need. When I tested KidsGuard, I found the setup uncomplicated, with clear instructions that made the whole process quick and frustration-free.
The distinct feature is its detailed WhatsApp tracking capabilities. You can view sent and received messages, track voice notes, and even see WhatsApp statuses. One thing I really liked was the ability to track deleted messages — a huge plus for parents who want complete visibility. KidsGuard refreshes the data frequently, so you’re always up-to-date on your child’s interactions. Unlike Phonsee, it offers a polished interface, making navigation easy, even for non-tech-savvy parents.
However, a drawback is that KidsGuard focuses exclusively on WhatsApp, meaning it doesn’t monitor broader social media platforms like Instagram or Snapchat (you need to purchase other products separately). But if WhatsApp is your primary concern, this specialization ensures it does the job well. Another limitation is that it requires installation on the target device, which may be tricky if your child is protective of their phone.
Beyond WhatsApp, KidsGuard provides additional features like capturing screenshots remotely and logging keystrokes. These extras help parents spot any potential risks or inappropriate behavior without having to snoop excessively. If you’re looking for a WhatsApp monitoring app tailored to parenting, KidsGuard for WhatsApp is a reliable and user-friendly option.
Pros
- Best parental monitoring app overall
- Tracks deleted WhatsApp messages and statuses
- Remote screenshot and keystroke logging
Cons
- Expensive service
- Limited to WhatsApp tracking (other services need to be purchased separately)
- Dependency on physical access for setup
The Best WhatsApp Spy Apps Compared
I’ve compiled a quick comparison of the best WhatsApp spy apps to help you decide. This table highlights key details like pricing, features, and compatibility to simplify your choice.
Provider | Starting Price | Best For | No. Of Devices | Free Trial/Demo | Moneyback Guarantee | Compatibility |
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mSpy | $11.66/month | Comprehensive WhatsApp tracking | 1 | Demo | 10-day refund | Android, iOS |
Spynger | $10.83/month | Catching Cheating Partners | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund | Android, iOS |
uMobix | $11.66/month | Beginner, Ease Of Use | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund | Android, iOS |
Spybubble Pro | $12.49/month | Recovery of Deleted Content | 1 | Demo | 30-day refund | Android, iOS |
Phonsee | $8.85/month | Affordable Tracking | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund | Android, iOS |
KidsGuard for WhatsApp | $24.99/month | Parental Control | 1 | Demo | 30-day refund | Android, iOS
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Monitoring Software Reviewed6
Key Criteria450+
Research Hours3
In-house Experts
Why Do I Need A WhatsApp Spy App?
WhatsApp spy apps can have multiple benefits, from safeguarding your child’s well-being to improving productivity in the workplace or even confirming suspicions in your personal relationships. Here’s how WhatsApp spy apps can help:
Parental Control
As a parent, it’s tough to keep up with the online world your kids are navigating. From my testing, WhatsApp spy apps are non-negotiable for parents who want to know their kids are safe without being overly invasive. For example, apps like KidsGuard for WhatsApp let you monitor who your child is chatting with, what media they’re sharing, and even their location.
One feature I found particularly useful during testing is keyword alerts. If your child receives messages with flagged terms related to bullying or explicit content, you get notified instantly. This kind of proactive monitoring means you don’t have to sift through every chat; it only notifies you when something seems off.
In my opinion, tools like these have a balance between protecting your child and respecting their privacy. It’s less about reading every message and more about stepping in when things might be dangerous.
Employee Monitoring
If you own a business, you’ll know that keeping sensitive information secure is critical. WhatsApp is a common channel for communication, and sometimes, employees might unintentionally or deliberately share company data with outsiders.
During my testing, I found that apps like uMobix offer features like screen recording and chat monitoring. This can help track work-related conversations and make sure no confidential data is leaking. One real-world example: a company I consulted for used a spy app to discover an employee sharing client data on WhatsApp, potentially saving them from a serious breach.
While I think transparency is essential in the workplace, these tools are valuable for businesses dealing with sensitive data. Just make sure your employees are aware of the monitoring to maintain trust.
Tracking a Cheating Partner
Suspecting a partner of infidelity is emotionally draining. From what I’ve seen in my testing, apps like Spynger can offer clarity by showing you who your partner is chatting with, their call logs, and even shared media.
One feature that I found useful was geofencing. You can set up a virtual boundary, and if your partner’s location doesn’t match where they claim to be, you’ll know. It’s a subtle yet effective way to gather evidence without confrontations based on pure suspicion.
While these apps are powerful, I always advise caution. Trust and communication should come first, but when that breaks down, these tools can provide the clarity you need to move forward.
Other Uses
Besides these main benefits, WhatsApp spy apps can also be used for personal security or even retrieving lost data. For example, during my analysis of all the spying and monitoring services, I found that some apps could recover deleted messages or files, a feature I didn’t even realize I needed until I accidentally deleted an important chat.
How Do WhatsApp Spy Apps Work?
WhatsApp spy apps work by being installed directly on the device or using advanced tracking methods like phone number-based monitoring to access WhatsApp activity. So, if you’ve been wondering — can WhatsApp be tracked? The answer is yes. These apps collect data such as messages, call logs, shared media, and locations linked to WhatsApp conversations. For apps requiring installation, like mSpy or KidsGuard for WhatsApp, you typically need physical access to the device for setup. Once installed, they operate discreetly in the background, logging activity and syncing it to a secure online dashboard you can access anytime.
I noticed that most WhatsApp tracker apps store logged information, allowing you to review data at your convenience through a WhatsApp viewer or a cloud-based portal. If you’re trying to figure out how to spy on WhatsApp to monitor loved ones, track employee activity, or uncover the truth behind WhatsApp cheating messages, these apps make it possible to gather insights with minimal effort. After installation or setup, you can easily access detailed data, like message history, calls, and media shared, all through a secure dashboard. Just use these tools responsibly and ethically, as they provide deep access to private information.
Are WhatsApp Spy Apps Legal?
In short, no. However, the legality of WhatsApp spy apps depends on where you live, what you’re using the app for, and who you’re monitoring. In countries like the US, UK, and Canada, laws are stricter when it comes to spying on adults, especially spouses, than they are when it comes to tracking your children.
Generally, as a parent, you’re allowed to monitor your minor child’s activity to keep them safe. Tracking adults, however, requires explicit consent from the person being monitored, and doing so without their knowledge can lead to legal issues. The apps I’ve reviewed are legitimate and safe to use, but it’s essential to get familiar with the laws in your region (like US spyware legislation).
For example, in some states or countries, it’s illegal to spy on someone’s WhatsApp without their consent. Ensure you’re using these tools ethically and within the bounds of the law.
Free WhatsApp Spy Apps Vs. Paid Apps — What’s The Difference?
The main difference between free and paid WhatsApp spy apps is reliability and safety. Free WhatsApp spy apps might look appealing at first, but they often come with significant downsides. A lot of these free tools can be deceptive, aimed at either harvesting your personal data or putting the person you want to monitor at risk. In my experience, I’ve stumbled upon free apps that appeared trustworthy but were packed with malware, putting my device in jeopardy. Even when they do function, the info they provide is usually pretty basic, like incomplete chat logs or simple timestamps, making them more of a hassle than anything else.
On the flip side, paid apps like mSpy and Spynger are way more dependable and offer a lot more features. The cool thing is that most trustworthy paid apps come with free demos or trial versions. This lets you test out their features, like live chat monitoring and geolocation tracking before you decide to buy. I’ve tried out several demos myself, and they gave me a solid, hands-on understanding of what the apps can actually do in real-life scenarios.
While the initial price of paid apps might seem high, the peace of mind, detailed information, and security they provide are worth it compared to the risks of using free options.
How To Install & Use A WhatsApp Spy App: A Step-by-Step Guide
I chose mSpy for showcasing because it ranks as one of the best WhatsApp spy apps for its reliability and powerful tracking features. Here’s how to set it up and start monitoring WhatsApp:
Choose a Plan and Create an Account
- Head over to the official mSpy website and select a subscription plan that fits your needs.
- Once you’ve picked a plan, create your account by entering your email address and setting up a password.
- You’ll receive a confirmation email with your login details and further instructions.
Access the Target Device
To install mSpy, you’ll need physical access to the target phone for a few minutes. Make sure the device is unlocked, as this step is crucial for setting up the app.
Download and Install mSpy
Log in to your mSpy account and follow the installation guide provided. You’ll be directed to download the app onto the target device. The process is quick, it took me a couple of minutes.
Adjust Device Settings
- Disable Play Protect on the target phone to ensure mSpy runs without interruptions.
- Navigate to the Google Play Store settings, turn off Play Protect, and proceed with the installation.
Start Monitoring
Once installed, log in to your mSpy account from your device. From the dashboard, you’ll be able to track WhatsApp chats, calls, media, and more in real time.
Conclusion — What’s The Best WhatsApp Spy App Of 2025?
After my thorough testing, mSpy came out as the best WhatsApp spy app of 2025. This is due to its sure-fire functionality, powerful features, and user-friendly interface. It stood out to me for its real-time chat tracking, media monitoring, and geofencing, so it’s the best choice if you’re looking for a comprehensive WhatsApp tracker. Plus, its compatibility with both Android and iOS guarantees it works for almost every user.
That said, if you’re focused on parental control, ClevGuard is another excellent option. Its dedicated WhatsApp monitoring app for kids offers detailed insights into chats and shared media while ensuring you stay informed about their online activities.
FAQs
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References
- H.R.1525 – Internet Spyware (I-SPY) Prevention Act of 2007 – Congress.gov