Hi, I have Samsung galaxy a53 5g with latest android 12 patch. I have installed a security app called Redfox mobile security from developer NTrigo. I have installed this app atleast two months ago and i have never observed such behavior of my phone until i installed a paid security app (MicroGuard) from Protectstar. In MicroGuard i have an option to protect all apps including system apps from microphone spying. MicroGuard probably holds mic well and this missbehaves of my phone occured. Why is this happening? Can any app that does not have mic permission still hear the surroundings and record it. Or is this all false positive behavior? I have special security setup and i doubt that i have a virus app atleast its not visible or its so well hidden and never seen before. I also have paid features of traced app now called trustd with vpn for phishing links and bad urls.
I don't think that any app that does not have microphone permission can listen to surroundings, at least if it is not built in by smartphone manufacturer. If you worry about some infection that used 0-day to escalate to system privileges, thus it is be able to bypass permission system, then just restart the phone. That kind of app probably is only worth to have to monitor apps that you need to give microphone permissions anyway i.e. telephone app or instant messenger with voice call functionality (VoIP I.e. WhatsApp). For camera spying use tape for front camera (if you don't make video calls or take selfies often) and removable cover for back camera. I don't know about how to tackle microphone from physical side since yours phone do not have minijack.
