Government Tapping

• In 2008 it was revealed that the FBI has a program that can tap in on anyone's cell phone whether it is turned on or not. It requires a court order and assistance from the phone company to do so. It can eavesdrop on both your phone calls and the conversations taking place around you by using the speaker on your phone. The only way to make sure that it isn't listening is to remove the battery from your phone.
  
  

Flexispy Software

• This is one of the most advanced commercially available cell phone spy softwares. Not only can it be used to bug a room, but it can be used to read email, record and listen in on phone calls, track location and obtain call logs. As of 2010, it costs between $125 and $300. One drawback to this program is that it can take up to two hours to install on a device, so if you want to protect yourself, keep your phone with you at all times.
  
  

Mobile Spy Software

• Although this product can't be used to listen in on conversations, it can still track the location of the phone even when it is turned off. It also reveals call logs. Although it's not as sophisticated as Flexispy, it doesn't come with as hefty a pricetag. As of 2010, it costs $49.97 per quarter.
  
  

Phone Stealth Software

• The biggest advantage to this program is that you don't need to install any software to the target phone. It is connected to your phone via Bluetooth, which means that you only need a few minutes to pair your phone and the target phone, and you will be able to listen to live calls, read text messages, view photos and read call logs. Since there is no software to install, this makes the program more difficult to detect. As of 2010, it costs $29.95.
  
  

Legalities

• Technically, tapping a phone that you do not own is illegal if the party being recorded does not consent to it, but purchasing software to tap cell phones is not illegal. So you can tap your son's or daughter's phones or even your spouse's if you purchased it.
  
  

Protect Yourself

• If you think that your phone has been bugged, there are a few signs to look for. Your phone flashing for no reason can be a signal that someone else is controlling it remotely. If the battery drains quickly or it stays warm even in between calls, the phone may be transmitting a signal or sound even when it is turned off or not in use. If you suspect that your phone has been bugged, the only way to get rid of it is to take it to a phone shop and have your phone software wiped clean and reinstalled by a professional. Remember to take the battery out of your phone to be sure nobody is listening in on you.