Smartphones collect location data to provide helpful services like navigation and weather updates. However, this data is also sold to marketers, used for targeted ads, or even accessed by law enforcement. While it’s impossible to completely stop tracking, you can take significant steps to limit it. Here’s how to manage location tracking on Android and iPhone devices:

For Android Phones

Google offers settings to control location tracking, but many apps still access your data unless managed carefully.

Disable General Location Tracking:

Quick Settings Panel
- Swipe down from the top of the screen.
- Tap the Location icon to turn it off.
- (If unavailable, go to Settings > Google > Location or Settings > Location on Samsung phones.)

Note: Turning off this setting disables Find My Device and features like turn-by-turn navigation on Google Maps.

Control Location Permissions for Apps:

• Go to Settings > Apps > App location permissions.

• Choose from:

• Allow all the time
• Allow only while using the app
• Ask every time

• Don’t allow

• Example: Allow "all the time" for navigation apps and "don’t allow" for retailer apps.

Other Location Settings:

• Navigate to Location services to manage:
• Location history: Disable to stop saving places visited.
• WiFi and Bluetooth scanning: Turn off to reduce tracking via nearby networks/devices.
• Location sharing: Manage contacts who can access your location.

For iPhones

Apple claims it doesn’t sell your data, but apps on your iPhone can still collect and share location data.

Disable General Location Tracking:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.

• Toggle the switch to off at the top.

• Note: Location Services may re-enable temporarily for Find My iPhone or Lost Mode.

Control App Location Access:

• Under Location Services, scroll to see apps with access.

• Tap each app to choose:

• Never
• While Using the App
• Ask Next Time

• Always

• Example: Enable full access for Maps for real-time updates but restrict social media apps.

Manage System Services:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services > System Services.

• Toggle off services like:

• Location-Based Ads
• Suggestions

• Routing & Traffic Data

• Clear location history via Significant Locations on this page.

General Tips to Reduce Tracking

• Turn Off WiFi and Bluetooth: These can track your movements even with GPS off.
• Limit Permissions: Avoid granting location access unless essential for the app's functionality.
• Review App Permissions Regularly: Apps often add new tracking capabilities in updates.
• Leave Your Phone at Home: For sensitive trips, consider not bringing your device or turning it off entirely.

Taking control of your location data helps protect your privacy while still enabling essential features. Stay mindful of what apps and services you trust with this sensitive information!

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