Blog Post View


Tracking a phone location has become an essential tool for many people. Considering the over 7 billion people who use smartphones around the globe, the need to track someone’s phone number is now greater than ever.

One of the reasons for tracking a smartphone may include locating a lost or stolen phone or monitoring the location of your friends or family members for validation purposes. In this guide, you will learn how to track someone's phone location.

You’ll discover methods like using phone trackers such as Msafely, as well as built-in tools and apps like Find My (iPhone), Find My Device (Android), Google Maps, and more. So, if you’re a parent or just looking to find a lost phone, this guide has the solutions you need.

How to Track Someone's Phone Location [From Easy to Difficult]

Tracking someone’s phone location doesn’t have to be a difficult process. We will discuss three methods to help you do just that.

Method 1. Track Someone's Phone Location via a Phone Tracker

A phone tracker is a reliable way to discreetly track someone’s phone location. Msafely is known as one of the most popular phone tracker apps and in addition, it is one of the best apps available that work flawlessly. Since it is less intrusive and allows for instant tracking, this makes it just perfect.

1. What is Msafely?

Msafely is an all-in-one monitoring software that lets you monitor a person's phone, as well as spy on messages, phone calls, activities on social networks, photographs, and much more.

The app works secretly in the background and provides you with real-time insights into a target device's activities. With its easy-to-use control panel, you can track someone's location, review their digital footprint, and even remotely control their phone in certain ways.

Msafely works with both Android and iOS operation systems and has many features like tracking users’ location, assessing users’ real-time social network activities, and more.

Msafely total privacy is guaranteed by data encryption, which refers to all data that has been transferred from the target phone to the Msafely control panel.

Msafely

2. Steps to use Msafely to track someone's phone without them knowing

Follow these steps to set up Msafely to track someone's phone without them knowing:

  • Sign up for an account: Use your email to register a free account on Msafely.
  • Msafely Create Account

  • Connect the Target Phone: Select the phone type (Android or iOS) and subscription plan, then follow the setup instructions.
  • Msafely Choose a Device Type

  • Start Monitoring: Once the app is set up, start using the Msafely application for tracking the phone’s location as well as managing other activities remotely via the control panel.
  • Msafely Monitoring

3. Msafely offers more excellent tracking features

Apart from phone location tracking, Msafely has more tracking features like the following:

  • Social Media Monitoring: With Msafely, you can view messages and media from major social platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat.
  • Text & Call History Tracking: You can keep an eye on all messages, emails, or conversations that have ever occurred including deleted text messages and calls.
  • Photo and Video Viewing: Get access to all photographs and videos on the target phone devices that were either saved onto the device or shared via applications.
  • Browser History Tracking: See the websites visited and track online activity for additional protection, especially for monitoring children.
  • Location Tracking and Geo-fencing: Msafely comes with the ability to allow its users to locate phones through the Global Positioning System in real-time, and also set up alarm systems when the phone moves from certain positions.

4. Pros and cons of Msafely

Pros Cons
Msafely provides real-time GPS tracking and detailed location history. Not free.
Monitors social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram.
Tracks texts, calls, photos, videos, and more.
Discreet monitoring without alerting the target device.
Includes advanced features like remote control (camera, microphone).
Compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

Method 2. Track Someone's Phone Location for Free via Built-in Tools and Apps

If you are looking for something with less complexity and at no cost, it is a pleasure to know that there are numerous free or built-in apps or tools for that purpose. Let us discuss six of them one by one.

1. Find My iPhone (for iPhones)

For iPhone users, there is the option of using the built-in tool called Find My iPhone. In order for this feature to work, the mobile phone should be connected to either WiFi or cellular data, and the location services should be enabled. You also need to have the iCloud account of the person as well.

Steps to track someone’s phone location using Find My iPhone app

  • Turn on Find My iPhone: On the target phone, tap on ‘Settings’, then on ‘iCloud’ and check the ‘Find My iPhone’ option.
  • Find my iPhone

  • Find the Device: if you have another device that is Apple, use Find My iPhone on it or log in to iCloud to the account that is related to the target Apple device, and a map view will pop up showing the target device’s location.
  • Respond Appropriately: The phone can be locked, all content can be deleted from it, or even a sound can be turned on from the phone in order to track.

Pros and cons of Find My iPhone

Pros Cons
Free and easy to use with no third-party apps required. Phone needs to be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data for tracking.
Simple setup via your Google or iCloud account. Only works with iPhones (Find My iPhone) or Android devices (Find My Device).
Remote actions are available, like locking or wiping the phone. If the phone is offline, only the last known location is visible.
No additional subscriptions or apps are required. Users may notice location services are turned on.

2. Find My Device (Android)

Find My Device is a Google app designed to help you track the location of an Android phone. Whether the phone is lost or you're simply monitoring someone’s location, this app allows you to pinpoint the device’s current position, provided it’s connected to the internet. If the device is offline, it shows the last known location.

Requirements for using Find My Device to track someone else phone location:

  • The target device must be logged into a Google account.
  • The device has to have location services turned on.
  • The phone has to be connected to Wi-Fi or some cellular data.
  • The device must be online for real-time tracking.

Steps to use Find My Device to track someone's phone location:

  • Log in to Google Account: Ensure the target device is logged into a Google account.
  • Enable Location Services: On the device, go to "Settings" > "Location" and toggle on location services.
  • Enable Location Services

  • Turn on Find My Device
  • Turn On Find My Device

  • Access Find My Device: Open the Find My Device app or go to the Find My Device website on your browser and sign in with the same Google account.
  • Track the Device: Once signed in, select the device you want to track, and the current location will appear on the map.

Pros and cons of Find My Device

Pros Cons
Free to use and built-in on Android devices. Only works on Android devices.
Simple setup and easy to use. Requires the phone to be online for real-time tracking.
Allows remote locking, ringing, or erasing of the device. Limited tracking options if the phone is offline.
Doesn't require third-party apps or subscriptions. Only shows the last known location if the device is offline.

3. Find My Mobile (Samsung)

For Samsung users, Find My Mobile is a very good application for tracking the location of a phone. It has many additional functionalities, too, including the ability to trace, lock, or even wipe a Samsung phone. Most important of all, It works even if the phone is not connected to the internet, indicating the last known status of the phone.

These are the requirements for using Find My Mobile to track someone’s phone location:

  • The phone you are trying to locate must be a Samsung.
  • Location services of the target device must be switched on.
  • The Samsung account associated with the device being targeted.
  • The device must be connected to the internet in order to utilize the feature of tracking a device in real-time.
Steps for using Find My Mobile to track somebody’s phone location:
  • Turn on Location Service: On the device, open "Settings" and move to enable location services.
  • Turn On Location Services

  • Turn on Find My Mobile: Go to the menu “Settings" > "Biometrics and security" > "Find My Mobile" and toggle it to turn it on.
  • Turn On Find My Mobile

  • Log into Samsung Account: Visit the Find My Mobile webpage of Samsung and sign in with your Samsung account.
  • Track the device: Now that you are logged in, you are able to see the current location of the device, lock it, and even delete all information associated with it.

Pros and cons of Find My Mobile

Pros Cons
Can track even when the phone is offline (last known location). Limited to Samsung devices only.
Remote unlocking, locking, and erasing of the phone. Requires a Samsung account for full functionality.
Integrated with Samsung’s SmartThings Find. Only works if location services are enabled on the phone.
Provides a simple and secure way to track devices. Cannot track non-Samsung phones.

4. Google Family Link (Android & iPhone)

Google Family Link allows you to track someone’s phone location and monitor their device. Though designed for managing children’s phones, it can be used for tracking location, controlling app usage, and managing screen time, with some differences between Android and iPhone.

Google Family Link for Android:

On Android devices, Google Family Link provides robust features, including real-time location tracking via Google Maps. You can track the target phone’s location, monitor screen time, control app usage, and even restrict certain content.

Requirements to track someone’s phone location with Google Family Link for Android:

  • The Target device must be Android.
  • Both devices need Google accounts.
  • Google Family Link installed and an active internet connection.

Setup for Google Family Android to track someone’s phone location:

  • Install Google Family Link on both devices.
  • Create a Google account for the target device if needed.
  • Link the devices via an invitation.
  • Hide the app to ensure no one knows you're monitoring.
  • Track location and activity via Google Maps.

Google Family Link for iPhone:

While Google Family Link offers some capabilities for iPhones, it’s more limited than on Android. You can still monitor screen time, app usage, and manage downloads, but location tracking is not as detailed. However, it still provides a way to keep tabs on the phone’s usage.

Requirements to track someone’s phone location with Google Family Link for iPhone:
  • You can use Android or iPhone, but the target phone must be an iPhone.
  • Both devices need Google accounts.
  • Wi-Fi or mobile data for monitoring.
Setup for iPhone to know how to track the location of someone's cell phone:
  • Install Google Family Link on both devices.
  • Create a Family group and link devices of both your own and the person’s own.
  • Hide notifications to keep monitoring discreet.
  • Monitor screen time and app usage.

Pros and cons of Google Family Link

Pros Cons
Free, no hidden fees. Complex setup for hidden monitoring.
Real-time location on Android. Limited location tracking on iPhone.
Screen time & app management. Requires internet connection for tracking.
Can hide notifications (Android). Tech-savvy users might detect monitoring.
Works on Android & iPhone. Cannot block pre-installed iPhone apps.

5. Google Maps (Android & iPhone)

Google Maps is a user-friendly application that is free of charge and can be used to locate a phone’s position. This applies to phones running either Android or iPhone. If you have permission to share a person's real-time location, it can be viewed on the map. Make sure you follow these requirements:

  • Google Maps installed.
  • Mobile data or Wi-Fi connection.
  • Location services enabled.
  • The person’s Google account (with consent) and location sharing must be turned on.

How to Use Google Maps to track someone’s phone location:

  • Install Google Maps: Ensure Google Maps is installed on the phone that you intend to track (Most smartphones come with Google Maps).
  • Sign In to Google Account: You’ll need to sign in to the target device’s Google account (with their consent).
  • Turn On Location Sharing: In Google Maps, click on the profile tab on location sharing and opt to share with the person.
  • Turn On Location Sharing

  • Send the Link: The location will be to be shared with other contacts where a link will be created.
  • Track the Device: The device can be tracked in the link provided, or you can go to location sharing available in the Google Maps application in real-time.

Pros and Cons of Using Google Maps

Pros Cons
Free and pre-installed on most smartphones. Requires location services to be enabled.
Simple and user-friendly interface. The phone must be online for real-time tracking.
Works on both iOS and Android. Limited to tracking location, no additional controls.
No need for extra apps or subscriptions. No ability to lock or erase the phone remotely.
Allows tracking multiple devices. Not ideal for long-term monitoring.

6. Location Sharing Feature of Social Apps

Many popular social media apps offer location-sharing features, allowing you to track someone's phone for free. These apps, which are widely used by many people already, can provide real-time location updates. Note these requirements:

  • The person must agree to share their location.
  • The app (WhatsApp, Facebook, or Instagram) must be installed on both devices.

How to use social media apps to track someone’s phone location:

Let’s discuss WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram as examples;

WhatsApp

  • Select the conversation with the person you wish to track.
  • Click the paperclip symbol, select “Attach a Location”, and decide whether to broadcast a live, rotating location or a static location.
  • Attach a Location

  • Takes a live location every 15 minutes, or from 15 minutes to 8 hours 8 hours.

Facebook Messenger:

  • While chatting, click the "+" button and "Location" option.
  • Attach a Location

  • Follow the instructions to begin watching the phone's location for a maximum of 60 minutes by clicking "Share Live Location."

Instagram:

  • Locate the contact whose chats you wish to monitor and launch the app.
  • A real-time update is provided by sending out a link to Google Maps showing the location of the phone.

Pros and cons of using social media apps

Pros Cons
Free to use, no extra subscriptions. Requires the person's consent to share the location.
No need for third-party apps. Location sharing is temporary and limited.
Real-time tracking on WhatsApp and Facebook. Instagram doesn’t offer continuous location sharing.
Simple interface and easy access. Limited to the app's location-sharing features.

Method 3. Track Someone's Phone Location by Phone Number

Using just a phone number to trace an individual’s location is one of the least sophisticated methods. Tracking a phone number can also be useful when you do not have the device at hand or when you cannot download a tracking application. This technique relies on certain services or applications that are able to monitor the account information of the SIM card network affiliated with the number being followed to ascertain their whereabouts.

Requirements for tracking someone’s phone location with phone number:

  • Possession of the Phone Number: You will, of course, need the phone number you are trying to track.
  • Stable Internet: There is a requirement for the user to be online while using the tracking service.
  • Support Service: the provider complements a specific area’s telephone number.

Steps for tracking someone’s phone location with phone number:

  • Select a Phone Tracking Service or Application: Services such as Geofinder or Mobile Number Tracker are the best options that should not be left out. These sites allow the user to conduct a search of the number and find out the number of users related to the location so as to find out the number of users of the number.
  • Input the Phone Number: Now go on and launch the application or service that has been chosen for this task. The mobile number to be tracked should be entered in the format of the country code followed by the phone number.
  • Check If Any Permissions Need to be Verified: In some cases, based on privacy policies applicable in some countries, a few tools may require the permission of the person being traced.
  • Source the Location Data: Usually, when a request is sent for this service, once it is processed, the user is provided with an estimated location on the map.

Pros and cons of tracking someone’s phone location with phone number:

Pros Cons
Easy to use—most services only require a phone number. Location accuracy can vary depending on the service and carrier.
Doesn’t need physical access to the phone you’re tracking. Some tools require the consent of the phone owner, limiting covert tracking.
Ideal for quick location checks, like finding lost phones. Many high-quality services charge fees for accurate and real-time tracking.
No additional app installation is needed on the target device. Limited functionality compared to GPS tracking apps with more features like geofencing.

What is the Best Way to Track Someone's Phone Location

After discussing all the methods above, it is evident that Msafely is the best way to track someone’s phone location. This is due to Its wide range of capabilities, which include GPS tracking, geofencing, and call and message monitoring. You do not need to have coding skills to operate Msafely due to its very easy-to-understand and neat interface. Apart from these, Msafely has always been recognized for its precision and trustworthiness. Furthermore, its outstanding customer service satisfaction completes the package and makes it a number one option for complex tracking purposes.

Here is a table comparing all the methods discussed:

Method Ease of Use Features Accuracy Cost Best For
Msafely Very easy GPS, geofencing, call/message monitoring Very accurate paid plan Advanced, stealth tracking needs
Find My iPhone Easy Location, lock, erase device Accurate Free Apple device recovery
Find My Device (Android) Easy Location, lock, alarm features Accurate Free Android device recovery
Find My Mobile (Samsung) Easy Location, lock, data backup Accurate Free Samsung device recovery
Google Family Link (Android & iPhone) Moderate Location tracking, app monitoring Moderately accurate Free Parental control for families
Google Maps Location Sharing Moderate Real-time location sharing with contacts Moderately accurate Free Informal, non-stealth tracking
Social Apps Location Features Moderate Location sharing (Snapchat, Messenger, etc.) Low to moderate Free Casual, temporary location sharing
Phone Number Tracking Difficult Basic location services, no advanced options Low accuracy Variable (may charge) Simple, one-time location requests

FAQs about Tracking Someone's Phone Location

There are phone number tracking applications that can locate someone, such as Localize or Geofinder, but most of the time, permission is requested, and they are not reliable. That is why the Msafely app is highly recommended.

Use Find My iPhone, Find My Device, or share your location through Google Maps to do so with ease at zero cost.

Activate Find My Device, use Google Maps location sharing, or apps like Google Family Link for Android tracking.

Use Find My iPhone or ask them to share their location through the Find My app feature.

Yes, but tracking a phone without consent can be illegal. Apps like Msafely require permission to track ethically.

Conclusion

Tracking a phone's location has never been easier, thanks to a wide range of tools and apps at your disposal. You have several options like Msafely or built-in tools such as Find My iPhone and Find My Device to help track someone’s phone location. Msafely is the best method. Msafely has been known to provide users with trustworthy and full tracking features on both iPhone and Android phones. The best part is the application can be used easily and is equipped with real-time GPS tracking. On a final note, it is important to remember to respect privacy and obtain consent when using these tools for location tracking.



Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. The tools and methods discussed here should only be used ethically and with the consent of the individual whose phone location you are tracking. Unauthorized tracking of a person’s phone may violate privacy laws and result in legal consequences. Always adhere to applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction before using any phone tracking applications or features. The publisher of this article is not responsible for any misuse of the information provided.


Share this post

Comments (0)

    No comment

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated. Spammy and bot submitted comments are deleted. Please submit the comments that are helpful to others, and we'll approve your comments. A comment that includes outbound link will only be approved if the content is relevant to the topic, and has some value to our readers.


Login To Post Comment