Posted by Discovering how to track someone’s location using just their phone number has become a topic of intrigue and concern in our increasingly connected world. Whether you’re a worried parent wanting to ensure your child’s safety, a business owner keeping tabs on your employees, or an individual looking to reconnect with a friend, understanding the methods and tools available for location tracking is essential. In this post, we will delve into the various techniques and technologies that can be used to track someone’s location by their phone number, exploring both the legitimate and ethical use cases, as well as the potential privacy implications that come hand in hand with such capabilities.
Can you track a phone with an IMEI number?
Tracking a phone’s location using its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is possible, but it’s important to note that this method is typically used by law enforcement and service providers for legitimate purposes like locating a stolen device. The IMEI number is a unique identifier assigned to every mobile device, and it can be used to track the device’s location when connected to the cellular network. However, tracking a phone solely by its IMEI number might not be accurate or real-time, as it relies on the device being actively connected to a cellular network.
Is It Legal to Track Someone’s Phone Number?
Regarding the legality of tracking someone’s phone number, it varies depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances. In many cases, tracking a phone with the explicit consent of the phone’s owner is generally legal. For example, parents might track their child’s phone for safety reasons, or employers might track company-owned devices to monitor employee activities during work hours.
However, tracking someone’s phone without their consent or knowledge can potentially violate their privacy rights and be considered illegal. Laws surrounding phone tracking vary by country and region, and unauthorized tracking can lead to legal consequences.
It’s important to emphasize that ethical considerations should always be taken into account when tracking someone’s phone. Respecting an individual’s privacy and obtaining their consent whenever possible is a fundamental aspect of responsible phone tracking. If you’re unsure about the legality of tracking in your specific situation, it’s recommended to seek legal advice or use tracking methods that are transparent and compliant with local laws.
How to track Someone’s Location by Phone Number
Tracking someone’s location by phone number can be done using legitimate and legal methods. Here are the steps to do so:
1. Consent and Ethics:
Before attempting to track someone’s location, ensure you have their explicit consent or legal authority to do so. Tracking someone without their knowledge or consent can be a violation of their privacy and may be illegal.
2. Use Mobile Tracking Apps:
There are various mobile tracking apps available that offer location tracking services. These apps are typically used for parental control or device security purposes. Popular examples include:
mSpy: Install the app on the target device and monitor its location through a web-based control panel.
Find My iPhone (iOS) / Find My Device (Android): These built-in features allow users to locate their devices. If you have the target person’s iCloud or Google account credentials, you might be able to track their device.
3. Location Sharing:
Many smartphones allow users to share their real-time location with others. If the person you want to track agrees to share their location with you, they can do so through apps like Google Maps (Location Sharing) or WhatsApp (Live Location Sharing).
4. Google Location History:
If the target person uses an Android device and has Google Location History enabled, you might be able to access their location history through their Google account settings. However, this requires access to their Google account.
5. Carrier Services:
Some mobile carriers offer location tracking services for family members on shared plans. You can check if your carrier provides such services and follow their guidelines.
6. Emergency Services:
In cases of emergencies, law enforcement agencies can sometimes track a phone’s location using its SIM card and network information. This requires proper legal authorization.
7. Private Investigator:
If you have legitimate reasons and legal authorization, you can hire a licensed private investigator who has the expertise to legally track someone’s location.
8. IMEI Tracking (Law Enforcement Only):
Law enforcement agencies can use the IMEI number to track a stolen device. However, this method is not available for public use and requires proper authority.
10 Best Apps to Track Location by Phone Number
1. Intelius:
Intelius is a comprehensive phone monitoring application that simplifies the process of remotely tracking your children’s activities. With features like setting up a geo-fence and receiving alerts when a designated area is entered or exited, Intelius ensures you stay informed about your child’s whereabouts. Through this tool, you can visually and clearly track the location of the targeted device on Google Maps.
Key Features:
Swift access to mobile phone files from any location.
Real-time data synchronization via 3G/4G or Wi-Fi networks.
Ideal for enterprise security and confidentiality supervision.
Recording of phone calls on your child’s device.
Support for multiple languages.
Remote capture of screenshots.
Retrieval of data and passwords from the targeted device.
Supported Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows
Free Trial: 5-day free trial
2. mSpy:
mSpy stands out as a versatile location tracker, offering real-time tracking of the target’s location on a detailed map display. This app also enables you to review the historical route of the phone over a specific time frame, providing address details, accuracy, and timestamps.
Key Features:
Effective for reading incoming and outgoing text messages.
Detailed list of visited places with GPS coordinates and timestamps.
Encryption and protection of location information.
Monitoring of visit frequency in designated zones.
Supported Platforms: Android, iPhone, iPad
Refund Policy: 14-day money-back guarantee
3. Scannero.io:
Scannero.io is a phone tracker service that lets you locate individuals worldwide by entering their phone numbers. Designed to work across various operating systems, this tool allows you to find the location of the target device, regardless of its platform. However, it’s worth noting that you need to install the app on the specific device you wish to track.
Key Features:
Accurate location tracking.
Capability to track multiple phone numbers.
Simple location retrieval via phone number input.
Compatibility with different phone types.
Creation of custom messages.
No need for device jailbreaking.
Supported Platforms: Android and iOS
Refund Policy: 14-day money-back guarantee
4. Spokeo:
Spokeo is a reliable phone tracker app that excels in real-time tracking of targeted devices. This app offers location tracking features that enable you to define a zone on the map, receiving instant notifications when the device enters or leaves the designated area.
Key Features:
Monitoring of social media applications.
Event attendance control for spouses and children.
Discovery of hidden camera pictures.
Retrieval of sent, received, or deleted messages.
Access to calendar events, including names, locations, dates, and times.
Supported Platforms: Android, Windows & iOS
Refund Policy: 7-day free trial
5. Hoverwatch:
Hoverwatch provides an array of tracking capabilities, including SMS, GPS, calls, messages, photos, and screenshots. It offers insights into the user’s information, both sent and received, as well as internet history. The software can be installed remotely from an online account.
Key Features:
Monitoring of employee and children’s online activities.
Access to the internet history of targeted devices.
Remote installation from an online account.
Supported Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Free Trial: 3-day free trial
6. uMobix:
uMobix is a popular phone tracker software that grants access to a user’s smartphone activities and history. It includes a feature that displays the past locations the device owner has visited, complete with timestamps.
Key Features:
Live control panel for monitoring phone activities.
Easy tracking of phone calls.
Access to the device’s photo gallery.
Tracking of lost or stolen phones and browsing history.
Supported Platforms: Android and iOS
Refund Policy: 14-day money-back guarantee
In summary, while these tools offer ways to track someone’s location using their phone number, it’s crucial to prioritize ethical considerations and legal compliance. Respect for privacy and consent should guide your actions, ensuring that you use such tracking capabilities responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.