It is possible to trace the whereabouts of your child or partner using mobile phone tracking apps. The question is how to track a phone without their knowledge. Several barriers, such as intricate configurations or limited connectivity, may undermine your motives.
After all, not all of us are technological geniuses. Fortunately, this article aims to reveal easy methods to follow up with someone without revealing your identity.
In This Article:
5 Ways To Track A Phone Without Them Knowing?
Install Phone Location Tracker
Installing phone spy apps on smartphones to pinpoint the device location is common. Depending on the service providers, certain options even facilitate tracking browser history, incoming calls, messages, and other online activities on the device.
These third-party apps ensure optimal accuracy in identifying the spots. They typically ascertain the real-time location and record the target’s route. After installation, they discreetly vanish from the phone screen, allowing continuous underlying operation without exposing your identity.
On the downside, cell phone tracker apps usually come at a cost. Advanced phone locators provide a trial period to glimpse the expected user experience. Some are not available on the app store due to privacy concerns. To acquire them, download them from the link provided on the official website. Fortunately, meeting these prerequisites is straightforward with on-screen instructions.
This solution only makes sense when you have physical access to the target mobile at least once. The installation takes less than one minute, but remember to notice the connectivity details. Then, download the same app on your device, input the required information, and monitor your target.
Track Via Find My Device
For those seeking a swift setup process, take advantage of the built-in phone monitoring apps available for both Android and iOS users. In detail, Android devices come with the “Find My Device” functionality. To initiate it, visit android.com/find or the app store and download the application on your phone. Apple makes it easier for iPhone users. Launch the Settings menu, select [Your iPhone ID] > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle it.
However, this method has its own set of challenges. You must sign in with the iCloud or Google/Gmail accounts associated with the tracked phone. The ID alone is insufficient; you need the corresponding password to proceed to the next stage.
Direct access to the target device is also compulsory to activate this built-in function. In addition, the tracked phone must maintain an active Internet connection to refresh the current location details.
From a personal perspective, the tracking features of built-in phone trackers are not highly regarded. These options do not guarantee anonymity, as the person being tracked can detect your sneaky behavior upon any attempt to log into their account. Frequent server errors also hinder the stealth mode. Last but not least, these features are exclusively compatible with the latest versions of the operating system.
Utilize Google Maps
Google Maps offers a viable solution if you want to save money on anonymous tracking. In addition to providing directions and traffic updates, it maps out users’ itineraries – a valuable record for your tracking purposes. Below are instructions on how to access detailed location history:
- Step 1: Open Google Maps on the mobile of the individual you wish to follow.
- Step 2: Tap the profile picture, select Timeline, and set the date to review. A map will show up, displaying users’ routes and stops.
For those who strive to maintain real-time connectivity, enable the location-sharing features by following these steps:
- Step 1: Tap Share Location in the settings menu.
- Step 2: Set the duration for which you want to stay connected.
- Step 3: Click Select People and choose your contact to share.
This method is cost-free and promises the most accurate updates owing to Google’s resources. However, it requires access to the target’s device, similar to the approaches mentioned above. Additionally, notifications may pop up while the target is using the device, thereby exposing your identity.
Locate By IMEI Code
If you cannot stealthily reach the target cell phone, the IMEI code is a useful approach. For those who do not know, IMEI is a distinctive identifier assigned to each device. The 15-digit sequence encodes crucial information, such as warranty details and technical specifications.
Tracking using IMEI code is typically a professional task for law enforcement agencies, but thanks to technological advancements, smartphone users can now utilize it for personal purposes. To monitor the cell phone location using the IMEI number, adhere to these simple steps:
- Step 1: Visit your app store for a reliable IMEI tracking app. Consider the reviews and ratings provided by other users.
- Step 2: Tap Download to conduct the installation process.
- Step 3: Open the app and follow the registration instructions.
- Step 4: Input the IMEI code of the targeted phone and click Track.
The IMEI code is a prerequisite for employing this solution. If you are unaware of this identifier, kindly request to borrow the phone from the individual you intend to track and dial *#06#.
Track With Phone Number
The simplest way to keep your identity private is to track a phone number without them knowing. This method necessitates a minimal setup while proving effective when you have almost no chance to access the target’s phone or during urgent scenarios.
On the downside, this approach faces significant privacy violations. It sometimes fails to pinpoint an exact location and typically incurs additional costs. Even if you are willing to endure advertisements, take surveys, or make a small payment, most sites only reveal a registered location or an incomplete address rather than real-time updates.
Despite these disadvantages, this monitoring feature is worth a try. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Find a trustworthy application or website with a phone number tracking service:
- Step 2: Enter the phone number of the person you want to track and activate the tracking capabilities.
FAQs
Can Someone Track My Phone Without Me Knowing?
Regrettably, YES. Tracking a mobile phone without the owner’s awareness is relatively straightforward. To proactively safeguard your privacy, consider these preventative measures:
- Reboot your phone regularly.
- Activate two-factor authentication and establish a strong password.
- Stay current with software updates.
- Disable location sharing on Google Maps and other apps. If possible, deactivate the microphone and camera functionalities as an added precaution.
Is It Legal To Track Someone’s Phone Without Their Knowledge?
The legality of tracking mobile devices without their consent varies based on local laws. Permissible scenarios may include:
- Worried parents or legal guardians who want to monitor underage children.
- Device owners who are tracking their own phones using another device.
- You have permission to trace the real-time location of cell phone owners.
Are Phone Tracking Apps Free?
Not all location services are free. Certain options require payment for premium plans or full-fledged functionality. On the bright side, most provide a brief trial version, allowing users to test the advanced features.
How To Know If Someone Is Faking Their Location?
The quickest way is to navigate to the Settings menu and look for GPS spoofing apps. These tools set up a virtual location or fake the phone’s real-time location.
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Conclusion
Real-time tracking of the location of your loved ones for safety purposes has become easier thanks to technological advancements. However, it is crucial to err on the side of caution and respect others’ privacy. Consider the legal and ethical aspects before trying the above methods.
