Geolocation Privacy: Stop Apps Tracking You

TL;DR

Yes, programs can discover your precise geolocation, but you have control over it. This guide explains how apps and websites track your location, and what steps you can take to limit or prevent this tracking on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Understanding How Geolocation Works

Geolocation isn’t magic; it relies on several technologies:

• GPS: The most accurate method, using satellites. Requires a clear view of the sky.
• Wi-Fi Positioning: Apps can estimate your location by detecting nearby Wi-Fi networks. This works indoors where GPS is weak.
• Cell Tower Triangulation: Less precise than GPS or Wi-Fi, but useful when other methods aren’t available.
• IP Address Lookup: The least accurate method; it only gives a general location (city level).

Most apps combine these technologies for better accuracy.

Steps to Protect Your Geolocation Privacy

1. Review App Permissions

1. Android:
   • Go to Settings > Apps (or Apps & notifications).
   • Select the app you want to check.
   • Tap Permissions, then Location.
   • Choose from options like: Allow only while using the app, Ask every time, or Don’t allow. Be cautious about granting ‘Always Allow’ access.
2. iOS:
   • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
   • Select the app you want to check.
   • Choose from options like: Never, Ask Next Time Or When I Share, or While Using the App. Consider ‘While Using the App’ as a safer default.
3. Windows:
   • Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Location.
   • Under “Location services”, ensure it’s toggled on or off based on your preference.
   • Scroll down and review app permissions under “Let apps access your location”. Toggle individual app access as needed.
4. macOS:
   • Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
   • Review the list of apps and toggle permissions on or off.

2. Disable Location Services When Not Needed

Turn off location services entirely when you don’t need them. This is a drastic step, but effective.

• Android: Quick Settings panel – tap the Location icon to toggle it on/off.
• iOS: Control Center – tap the Location Services icon.

3. Use Privacy-Focused Browsers

Standard browsers often share your location with websites. Consider using privacy-focused alternatives:

• Brave Browser: Blocks trackers and offers built-in ad blocking.
• Firefox Focus: Automatically blocks trackers and erases browsing history.

Even in these browsers, review location permission settings.

4. Be Careful with Wi-Fi Networks

Apps can use nearby Wi-Fi networks to estimate your location even if you’re not connected. Avoid connecting to unknown or public Wi-Fi networks without a VPN.

5. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN masks your IP address, making it harder to determine your general location based on your internet connection. It doesn’t hide GPS data directly but adds an extra layer of privacy.

6. Check Website Permissions

1. Most browsers will ask for permission before accessing your location. Deny access unless you trust the website and have a good reason to share it.
2. To review existing permissions in Chrome:

   chrome://settings/content/location

3. In Firefox:

   about:preferences#privacy

   and check the “Permissions” section under “Location”.

7. Regularly Review and Update Privacy Settings

App permissions can change with updates. Make it a habit to periodically review your privacy settings on all devices.