Phone tracking
Who can see your location?
Updated September 2026
Before worrying about spy apps, check the features built to share your location. Anyone who had your phone for a minute could have turned one on. Here's where each one lives.
Short answer
Check Find My (People tab) and Messages on iPhone, Location sharing in Google Maps, and any family app like Life360. These are the most common ways people track a phone, and each one takes a minute to check and turn off.
Where to check
| Feature | Where to look | How to stop it |
|---|---|---|
| Find My (iPhone) | Find My app > People | Tap the person > Stop Sharing My Location |
| Messages (iPhone) | Open the conversation > tap their name | Turn off location sharing there |
| Safety Check (iPhone) | Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check | Review everything, or use Emergency Reset |
| Google Maps | Profile picture > Location sharing | Tap the person > Stop |
| Life360 and family apps | Open the app > your Circles | Leave the Circle or remove the app |
| Snapchat | Snap Map > settings gear | Turn on Ghost Mode |
Also check your accounts
Someone signed in to your Apple Account or Google Account may see your location without any sharing turned on. See the steps for iPhone and Android.
Before you turn it off
If you’re in a situation where someone may react badly when your location disappears, talk to an advocate first. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is free and confidential 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788. See also what to do if you find tracking.
Your car can share your location too
Most newer vehicles have a built-in modem that reports where you drive, and a previous owner's app may still be connected. Here's what each automaker collects.
Common questions
+How do I know who can see my location on iPhone?
Open the Find My app and tap People. Everyone listed can see your location. You can also run Safety Check in Settings > Privacy & Security for a full list of who you share with.
+Does the other person get notified when I stop sharing?
Usually there's no notification, but they may notice your location is no longer available. If you're worried about how they'll react, plan for your safety before you change it.
+Can someone see my location through my Google account?
If they're signed in to your Google Account on another device, possibly. Check Your devices on your Google Account's Security page and change your password.
+Is Life360 location sharing always visible?
Life360 shows up as an app on your phone, and members of your Circle can see your location. Open the app to see who's in each Circle, or leave the Circle.