Phone Tracking. Who's Tracking You?As our reliance on smartphones grows, we inadvertently disclose more and more personal information.
Consequently, the pressing inquiry emerges: How can you ensure that your phone remains untraceable and your online data stays protected? We consulted technology experts to gather their valuable insights
In the present era, a significant number of individuals have grown increasingly reliant on their smartphones. In more severe instances, some may even characterize this dependence as an addiction. But have you ever paused to contemplate the extensive knowledge your smartphone possesses about you? While you may be aware of how to detect if your computer has been compromised and what potential actions hackers can take with your cell phone number, are you well-informed about the prevalent security threats and data tracking methods associated with smartphones? Understanding these risks might lead you to inquire about ways to render your phone untraceable."
"Even the most secure smartphones employ various tracking methods, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. While some may assume that having nothing to hide means nothing to worry about, today's data-driven economy places significant value on personal information. There are valid reasons to be cautious about tracking. Concerns may include the commercial exploitation of your data, apprehension about potential misuse, or simply discomfort with constant surveillance.
Stephanie Benoit Kurtz, the lead faculty member for the College of Information Systems and Technology at the University of Phoenix, highlights the dual nature of location technology in cell phones. It can assist in locating nearby services like gas stations but also has the potential to disclose your whereabouts, whether legally or illegally. Users often overlook the fine print associated with tracking, which can conceal concerning practices, such as continuous device location monitoring and the sharing of information like installed applications, contacts, text messages, and emails."
Smartphone Tracking
"You might imagine individuals tracking your smartphone as mysterious figures with intentions to steal your identity, your money, or both. However, a wide array of individuals and organizations engage in smartphone tracking, not limited to just hackers.
Smartphone tracking comes in two forms: active and passive. Surprisingly, strong passwords won't deter active tracking. Active tracking, utilizing technologies such as GSM, 3G, or 4G, is sometimes termed a 'man-in-the-middle attack.' This tactic is generally considered unlawful in many countries, yet it might be used by law enforcement and government security agencies when probing particular security threats.
"Passive tracking relies on technologies such as Bluetooth beacons, Wi-Fi, and GPS to estimate a user's location. Many smartphone applications utilize these methods, serving various purposes. Some apps are explicitly designed for location tracking, assisting parents in monitoring their children's whereabouts.
However, some other apps gather user data with the purpose of using it for their own business development and marketing efforts. In certain cases, they might even sell this data to the highest bidder.
Advertisers also make use of this data to display tailored advertisements to users. Surprisingly, even government agencies have been reported to purchase location data. This was disclosed by the Wall Street Journal in 2020 when the Department of Homeland Security acquired data extracted from smartphones, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) used it for tracking undocumented immigrants." Read More
How to make your phone impossible to track
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Review App Permissions | Carefully review and revoke unnecessary app permissions. |
| Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) | Install a VPN to encrypt your internet connection. |
| Enable Encryption | Encrypt your device data to protect it from unauthorized access. |
| Regularly Update Software | Keep your operating system and apps up to date to patch security vulnerabilities. |
| Turn Off Location Services | Disable location services or use approximate location instead of GPS. |
| Choose Privacy-Focused Apps | Opt for apps that prioritize user privacy and security. |
| Limit Social Media Sharing | Adjust social media privacy settings and limit personal information sharing. |
| Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi | Avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi networks, and use a VPN when needed. |
| Use Encrypted Messaging Apps | Use messaging apps with end-to-end encryption for secure communications. |
| Regularly Check App Permissions | Periodically review app permissions to prevent unauthorized data access. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, safeguarding our digital privacy has become crucial in an era where smartphones store significant personal information and are susceptible to various tracking methods. By implementing practices such as carefully reviewing app permissions, utilizing VPNs, and selecting privacy-focused apps, we can proactively protect our data and reduce the traceability of our phones. These steps empower us to navigate the digital landscape with increased control and security while ensuring our online activities remain private.