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How to Turn Off Phone Tracking on Android

  • Guest Contributor
  • Sep 4
  • 2 min read
This image serves as a stark reminder that Shield Antivirus Launcher is here to protect you from cybercriminals like him, who attempt to track individuals.

Worried about your phone tracking you? You’re not alone. Many Android users, especially those over 50, aren’t aware how easily location data is collected. Let’s explore how to turn off phone tracking in easy steps anyone can follow.


What is Phone Tracking?

Your Android phone uses GPS, Wi‑Fi, and Bluetooth to figure out where you are. This helps with navigation, weather, or finding nearby friends. But it also means apps and big companies can record your movements, even when you’re not using the app (Tom’s Guide).


Step 1: Turn Off General Location


  1. Swipe down twice from the top of the screen.

  2. Long‑press the Location icon or go to Settings > Location.

  3. Toggle Use location to OFF (The Verge).

This stops most tracking, but not everything.


Step 2: Disable Wi‑Fi & Bluetooth Scanning


Even with location off, your phone might scan the air for networks to guess where you are. To stop that:

  1. In Settings > Location, tap Advanced or Location services.

  2. Turn off Wi‑Fi scanning and Bluetooth scanning.


Step 3: Limit App‑by‑App Permissions


Some apps still ask for your location. To manage them:

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Permissions (or Privacy).

  2. Tap Location.

  3. Choose apps and set “Don’t allow” or “Allow only while using.”

Only leave permissions on for those who truly need it.


Step 4: Clear Location History


Your Google account may store past trips:

  1. Open Google Maps, tap your profile → Your Timeline.

  2. Tap the three dots → Settings & privacy, then Delete all Location History (Wired, FTC Report PDF).

Or delete only specific dates.


Why Turn Off Phone Tracking?


  • Privacy: Apps shouldn’t know everywhere you go.

  • Security: Location data can reveal health visits or religious places (FTC).

  • Peace of mind: Less spying by advertisers or data brokers.


Use Shield Antivirus Launcher for Extra Protection


Shield helps with:

  • Detecting scam links in suspicious location-sharing apps

  • Locking apps that ask for location without need

  • Scanning Wi‑Fi to ensure you’re not on unsafe networks


Turning off phone tracking takes just a few minutes, but the impact lasts. You’ll regain control over your data, without sacrificing usefulness when you need GPS or maps.


Thanks for reading! If you found this helpful, share with someone you know. And don’t forget to download Shield Antivirus Launcher to boost your privacy and protection.


Stay safe, stay private!


 
 
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