A tracking device on a person works by using GPS satellites or cellular/Wi-Fi signals to pinpoint location, transmitting this data via cellular networks (like 4G/5G) to a server, which then displays it on an app or web portal, often with features like geofencing, SOS alerts, and fall detection, providing real-time or periodic location updates for safety or monitoring.
If you notice several of these signs, your phone might be tracked:
It is unlawful for any person to use an electronic GPS device to track someone without consent. Stalking is a course of conduct where someone uses a GPS tracker to monitor someone without their consent.
You can identify, find, and remove trackers that have been placed near you or in your belongings without your knowledge or consent with the help of unknown tracker alerts. Important: This feature is only available for devices with Android 6 and up.
Key Takeaways
GPS stands for Global Positioning System, a network of satellites orbiting Earth. GPS trackers receive signals from these satellites to pinpoint exact locations. Most modern trackers use cellular networks to send location data in real time.
One of the easiest ways someone can track your phone is through location services. Apps, websites, and even hackers can use GPS data to monitor your movements in real time. Disabling location services limits their ability to do so, reducing the risk of unauthorized tracking.
A GPS tracker can work anywhere because it relies on satellite signals to determine location. The range of the tracker itself is not limited by distance, as the satellites used for GPS (Global Positioning System) cover the entire planet.
Google Maps or Apple Find My
Your spouse gets hold of your device and turns on the location sharing option within either of these apps. Once activated, they can then track your location remotely, using their own device. To check if you're affected, simply open the app and check if location sharing is turned on.
Dialing *#21# on your phone checks the status of your unconditional call forwarding, revealing if your calls, texts, or data are being redirected to another number without you knowing, often without leaving traces on your phone bill; it's a standard network code to see your carrier's call forwarding settings, not a definitive "hacking" tool, but useful for detecting unauthorized forwarding.
An effective GPS tracker against the vehicle theft should not run out of battery at the wrong moment. However, depending on the model, battery life can vary greatly : from just a few days to several months, or even unlimited if the tracker is connected to the vehicle's power supply.
Get someone's location in Google Maps
Apple has not added notifications for when someone is checking another person's location in Find My, under one exception. If someone decides to use the “Find Nearby” feature powered by Precision Finding, that will notify the other person that they are trying to find them.
To find a tracker in your car, conduct a thorough physical search of common spots (under seats, dashboard, wheel wells, OBD-II port, trunk) using a flashlight and mirror, check your phone for unknown device alerts, and consider using a dedicated RF signal detector for wireless signals, but be aware some trackers are hard to find and may require professional help for hard-wired devices.
What Does ##002# Really Do? 🔐📞 ##002# instantly cancels all call forwarding on your phone — busy, unreachable, or no-answer. It's a simple way to reset settings and protect your privacy.
Can I run a test to see if my phone is hacked? Yes, running an antivirus scan using a mobile security app like Norton 360 Deluxe can help you identify malware infections that could be granting hackers access to your device or data.
13 Ways to Make Make Your Smartphone Impossible to Track
You can also use *82 to unblock your number in case your call gets rejected temporarily. Some providers and users will automatically block private numbers, so using this code will help you bypass this filter.
Dial *#62# to check if your voice or messages are being forwarded. Then dial ##62# to cancel #reject #TechSavvy #changeisgood.
Unusual sounds or echoes during calls
If you're noticing weird clicking sounds or high-pitched hums on multiple calls across different locations and with different people, it could be a sign that someone is eavesdropping or tracking your calls.
Modern phones keep lengthy records of our messaging history, making it easier for a prying spouse to read all your conversations once they have access to your phone data. They can obtain this using a number of methods, such as through shared cloud accounts, or by using spyware.
Three-finger gestures on iPhone primarily activate accessibility features like VoiceOver (for screen reading and navigation) and Zoom (magnification), allowing scrolling, zooming, and text manipulation (copy/paste/undo) with specific taps and drags, though some text actions work without VoiceOver enabled for quick editing. Common gestures include three-finger double-tap to toggle VoiceOver speech, triple-tap for the screen curtain, and pinching/spreading with three fingers for copy/paste actions, notes this YouTube video.
GPS jammers block satellite signals, preventing accurate location tracking.
No-subscription GPS trackers provide cost-effective real-time tracking without monthly fees. Their real-time tracking, geofencing, long battery life, and weather resistance which fit so well for vehicle security, asset tracking, and personal safety allow them to be used in many different ways.
GPS tracking on your phone works just as well without internet connectivity or cellular service. We are constantly surrounded by Global Positioning System signals from satellites orbiting the planet. Your phone is continuously tracking these signals to get an estimate of your location even when you are offline.