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Stop Phone Tracking: Google, Apple & Microsoft

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Yes, you can significantly limit tracking by Google, Apple and Microsoft, but complete prevention is very difficult. This guide explains how to reduce their access to your location data through settings adjustments, app permissions, and alternative services.

How to Stop Phone Tracking

  1. Understand What’s Being Tracked
    • Google: Location History (tracks places visited), Web & App Activity (links location to your Google account), YouTube history, and device location services.
    • Apple: Significant Locations (stores frequently visited locations), System Services (used for features like traffic patterns), Find My network (for locating lost devices).
    • Microsoft: Location data through Bing search, Cortana voice assistant, and apps using Microsoft accounts.
  2. Google – Android Settings
    1. Turn off Location History: Go to Settings > Google > Location > Location History and toggle it off. Also review ‘Web & App Activity’ and pause it if desired.
    2. Manage App Permissions: Go to Settings > Apps > (Choose an app) > Permissions > Location. Choose ‘Allow only while using the app’ or ‘Ask every time’, or deny permission altogether. Be aware this may break some app functionality.
    3. Privacy Checkup: Use Google’s Privacy Checkup tool (https://myaccount.google.com/privacycheckup) to review and adjust your settings.
  3. Apple – iPhone Settings
    1. Significant Locations: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services > Significant Locations and toggle it off.
    2. Location Permissions: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Review each app’s location access (Never, Ask Next Time Or When I Share, While Using the App, Always). Be cautious about granting ‘Always’ permission.
    3. Limit Ad Tracking: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising and toggle ‘Personalised Ads’ off.
  4. Microsoft – Windows/Account Settings
    1. Location History (Bing): Sign in to your Microsoft account online (https://account.microsoft.com) and go to Privacy > Activity history. Clear your search history and disable location tracking.
    2. Cortana Permissions: In Windows Settings, check Cortana’s permissions (Settings > Privacy & Security > Voice). Limit access to microphone and location data if you don’t use Cortana.
    3. App Permissions: Review app permissions in Settings > Privacy & Security > Location.
  5. Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Scanning
    • Both Android and iOS constantly scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices, even when not connected, to improve location accuracy.
    • Android: Go to Settings > Location > Wi-Fi scanning & Bluetooth scanning and toggle them off.
    • iOS: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services and disable ‘Wi-Fi Networking’ and ‘Bluetooth’.
  6. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

    A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, making it harder to track your general location. Choose a reputable VPN provider.

  7. Consider Alternative Apps & Services
    • Maps: Use privacy-focused map apps like OsmAnd or MAPS.ME which allow offline maps and don’t require a Google account.
    • Search Engine: Use search engines that don’t track your location, such as DuckDuckGo (https://duckduckgo.com/).
  8. Regularly Review Permissions

    App permissions can change with updates. Make it a habit to periodically review the location access granted to each app on your phone.

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