Google Maps: how to locate a phone number for free ? Tutorial

© Unsplash/Henry Perks

At a time when cell phones have become an extension of our brain, losing them can be a source of considerable stress. Fortunately, manufacturers offer localization solutions, but not only that.

Applications like Google Maps also offer effective ways to find a lost device or ensure the safety of a loved one. So we explain how to use Google Maps to locate a phone number for free.

Why locate a phone?

Security is at the heart of many users' concerns. Also, being able to locate a device can get us out of a lot of setbacks. Whether it's an emergency situation (for yourself or a loved one), theft or simply a lost device , there is no shortage of reasons to locate a phone.

Parents, in particular, can find comfort in monitoring their children's location, while others can use this feature to coordinate get-togethers in crowded spaces or look after elderly people. You will have understood, the examples are numerous.

Prerequisites for geolocation on Google Maps

Before starting to locate a device, certain prerequisites are essential. First of all, Make sure Google Maps is installed and updated on the target phone. As privacy is a major concern, permission from the phone user is required to access its position.

This permission is usually granted the first time you use the app, but you should check that location is enabled for Google Maps in the device settings. On iPhone, this is done in the settings under “Privacy and security” then “Location Service”. On Android, this option is usually found in Settings under “Location”. What else? Nothing.

How to locate a phone on Google Maps?

Since access to the location of the target device is allowed, you can find it anywhere very easily using Google Maps. Here is the method to apply:

1. Share location: Before being able to access the target phone, the user must first allow sharing of its position in real time. By opening the app and clicking on the profile icon, select 'Share Location', choose how long to share and with whom. The recipient will then receive a link to view the position in real time on Google Maps.
2. Interpret location data: The position of the device is indicated by a blue dot on the map. For more precise location information, a single click on this point reveals detailed information, such as the current address or the speed of movement if the user is moving.

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And there you go, that's it!

Limitations and Ethical Considerations

While this method can get out of many situations, it is not infallible. Although Google Maps is a powerful tool, its accuracy for example can be influenced by geographic factors or weak signals.

Furthermore, geolocation raises important privacy issues. User consent is paramount and sharing their location without permission may have legal consequences. It is also crucial to think about the information revealed by location histories and how to manage them.

Finally, in the event of loss or theft, if the user has not authorized location sharing beforehand, Google Maps will not be of assistance. great help. You will then have to turn to the manufacturer's location applications.

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