Trackers are cheap and small. The defence is making sure your phone is always listening for them and that you check belongings periodically.
iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → System Services → Significant Locations + ensure Bluetooth is on. Android: Settings → Safety & emergency → Unknown tracker alerts → toggle on.
Once a week — especially after time around someone you don't fully trust — open the tracker scanner manually. Most apps only alert after hours of separation from the owner; a quick manual scan catches more.
Once a month, check obvious vehicle hiding spots: wheel wells, under bumpers, inside the OBD-II port (under the steering column). A torch and 5 minutes is enough.
Speak to a specialist service before changing anything — they can help plan a safe response. In Australia: 1800RESPECT. UK: National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247. US: 1-800-799-7233.
Was this guide helpful?
Know someone who needs this? Send them the guide.
JD
Written by
Jordan DicksonFounder, CyberSecurityGuides
Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.
Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers