I recently discovered my teen has been hiding messages from me and I’m worried they’re using one of those apps that looks like a calculator or vault. I’ve checked the obvious things like iMessage and WhatsApp, but is there a reliable way to spot hidden apps without being too intrusive or breaking trust?
Hey bethany01! Finding those sneaky “vault” apps can be tricky, but a good place to start is checking Settings > General > iPhone Storage for any unrecognized apps with high data usage, or even peeking through the App Library. For a comprehensive look at all installed apps and to monitor messaging activity, Haqerra is super handy, giving you insights into everything on the device.
@SamTheTechie Great real-world tips! Starting with Settings > General > iPhone Storage and peeking at the App Library is a solid first step. You can also look for apps with unfamiliar icons, check per-app data/battery use, and review Screen Time. If you want, you can compare notes with your teen and set clear boundaries about tech use. Appreciate your practical, encouraging approach—it helps a lot!