In an era where smartphones are integral to our daily lives, our capability to track location on an Android smartphone has become a valuable tool. It is considering multiple reasons, such as the safety & security of loved ones, recovering lost devices, etc.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the different tricks used to track an Android phone’s location. We will try to cover the topic from all perspectives, i.e., built-in features of Android operating systems, best location tracking apps, etc.
Different Tricks for Locating an Android Smartphone
Several tricks can be used to locate an Android Smartphone. These tricks include built-in features, third-party tracking apps, and more. Therefore, let’s check them out:
1. Built-in Android Features
Android offers some built-in features that can be used to locate an Android smartphone. Here are your options:
A) Google’s Find My Device
Amongst the majority of native features that Android devices have, Google’s “Find My Device” is a powerful tool used for tracking Android devices. This tool is accessible through a web browser or another Android device linked to the same Google account. This enables users to locate the device, remotely lock it, and even erase data in case it gets stolen.
B) Location Sharing with Google Maps
Google Maps provides real-time location-sharing features. It allows users to share their live location amongst their peers. It is an excellent tool for coordinating meet-ups or keeping track of someone’s movements with their explicit consent.
2. Third-Party Tracking Apps
Just like several third-party apps act as a guide to add geolocation in mobile apps, there are third-party apps that do the polar opposite, i.e., locate your Android. Below are a few examples to give you a better understanding.
A) Family Locator Apps
There are numerous third-party best location tracking apps available on Android. For instance, Life360 and FamiSafe. These apps are designed specifically for family safety and location tracking. With this app, users can create private circles of family or friends. Additionally, the app displays real-time location information and additional safety features.
B) Cerberus Anti-Theft
Cerberus is a powerful anti-theft app for users seeking more robust security options. Beyond tracking location, the application also provides features like remote control, capturing photos using the device’s camera, and recording audio from the surroundings. However, this requires administrative privileges for enhanced device security.
C) Prey Anti-Theft
Prey is another application that can be used for anti-theft. It allows users to track the location of their Android device, with features like remote locking, triggering alarms, and detailed information about the device’s usage. It provides a comprehensive approach to device security.
3. IMEI Tracking
Every mobile device has a unique IMEI number. It can be used to track the device’s location. However, accessing this information typically requires cooperation from law enforcement agencies or mobile service providers.
4. Carrier Tracking Services
Even mobile carriers provide services for tracking the location of a device. These services may vary depending on your cellular service provider. It is advisable to check with the carrier for available options and compatibility.
5. WiFi and Bluetooth Tracking
These are two ways that are often used to locate an Android smartphone. Let’s see how this can be achieved:
A) WiFi Triangulation
Android devices continuously search for available WiFI networks. By analyzing these WiFi networks nearby, it is possible to figure out the approximate location of your device. This process is known as WiFi triangulation.
B) Bluetooth Tracking
Similar to WiFi, Bluetooth signals can also be used for tracking. However, this method requires the target device to have Bluetooth enabled and be within the range of the tracking device.
6. Social Media Location Tracking
Certain social media platforms also offer location-sharing features. For example, Snapchat’s Snap Map and Facebook’s Live Location Sharing provide real-time updates on users’ whereabouts. However, privacy settings allow users to control who sees their location.
Legal and Ethical Considerations – While Tracking an Android Smartphone!
Trying to locate an individual’s whereabouts is an infringement of privacy. Therefore, legal and ethical considerations need to be met before. So, let’s learn about them:
1. Privacy Concerns
Respecting the privacy of a person is of paramount importance. However, tracking should always be conducted responsibly and with the person’s explicit consent. Violating privacy laws can lead to serious legal consequences.
2. User Consent
Obtaining explicit consent from a user is a fundamental ethical consideration. It is important to tell the individual about the purpose of tracking. It assures them that their privacy will be respected throughout the process.
3. Legal Framework
While using a location tracking application, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local and international laws related to tracking. This is because different regions have varying regulations and understandings. This is to avoid legal complications.
Conclusion
The ability to track the location of an Android phone is multifaceted. There are several ways of achieving this via multiple tools and methods available. These range from built-in features to cellular service providers. Additionally, while carrying out the task, it is important to have ethical considerations and adherence to legal boundaries. Following the above mentioned steps, individuals can leverage location-tracking tools responsibly and effectively in diverse scenarios.
