It’s never been easier to track someone, thanks to smartphones and technology in general. We live in an always-connected world. First, you’re probably connected to the internet via WiFi 24/7. Second, you’re always on your phone network. Finally, there’s your phone’s built-in GPS, which can pinpoint your exact location on a map.
Is someone you know tracking you secretly?
Hackers can use all three avenues – WiFi, the phone network, and GPS – to track you. The government can track you too. But did you know just about anyone you know could do it too? All they need are spy apps, which are a dime a dozen.
In fact, tracking your cheating partner or wayward child is very common. Websites such as cellphonetracker.net offer simple ways to track anyone’s phone remotely.
How can you tell if your phone is being tracked? If someone close to you is doing it, they’re probably doing it via a spy app. But they could be using other ways too. Here are some common signs your cell phone is being tracked right now:
1. Your phone behaves erratically
Is your phone behaving strangely? What do we mean by strange behavior, exactly? Here are some examples:
- Your phone lags, jitters, or slows down randomly.
- The battery drains too fast.
- Your phone heats up quickly.
- The phone screen flashes on when you’re not using the phone.
If these signs are present, someone has installed a spy app on your phone.
2. You have a “jailbroken” or “rooted” device
Have you heard of jailbreaking and rooting? Essentially, these processes replace the default operating system on your phone (iOS or Android) with an unlocked version. While this doesn’t automatically allow someone to track you, it definitely makes it easier. You can tell if your device is rooted or not with the help of a wiKiHow.tech guide.
3. You’re running up a huge data bill
Have you used a lot of data this month, but don’t really remember downloading anything? An app on your phone could be tracking you and uploading your private information. You should monitor your data usage to find out. This lifewire.com’s article shows you how to monitor your data usage on your phone.
4. There are strange files on your phone
Does your phone have an unknown app installed on it? Are there strange files or hidden folders showing up in your device storage? Have you received garbled text messages from someone? All three signs point to the presence of malware or spyware of some sort.
5. Unknown devices have logged into your account
Sometimes, hackers will manage to figure out your Google or iCloud credentials. If you don’t have two-factor authentication enabled, they can log into your account and steal your data. This happens worryingly often. If a device you don’t know has logged into your account, you’re being tracked.
How do you stop your phone from being tracked?
Think your phone is being tracked right now? Here are some ways to get rid of the phone tracker:
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Run a virus check and revoke administrative privileges.
- Change all your account passwords.
- Clean up your phone. Do it often.
- Download only from trusted sources.
Spy apps and other tracking methods are sometimes extremely hard to detect and get rid of. If nothing else works, the last resort solution is a factory reset!
