A
Technical Vehicle Solutions - Vehicle Tracker in Royston22

How Do I Know If Someone Is Tracking My GPS?

The idea that someone might be tracking your location, whether via your phone or your car, is alarming. Fortunately, there are clear signs you can look for and straightforward checks you can carry out yourself. This article explains the common indicators of GPS tracking, how to search for trackers (both device and software), and sensible next steps if you suspect you’re being monitored.

Two kinds of tracking to consider

First, it helps to split tracking into two categories:

  • Physical trackers – small GPS devices fitted to a vehicle (hidden in the wheel arch, under the bumper, or plugged into the OBD port). These report location independently.
  • Software tracking – apps or malware on a smartphone (or connected device) that reports your GPS to somebody else.

The checks and remedies differ depending on which type you suspect.

Vehicle Tracker in Royston

Common signs someone may be tracking your car

Look out for these red flags if you’re worried about a physical tracker on your vehicle:

  • Unexplained movement alerts from a monitoring app you don’t recognise.
  • New or unusual wiring under the dashboard, in the wheel arch or near the battery.
  • A tracker found on inspection – sometimes visible under the vehicle, behind panels, or in the boot.
  • Frequent, targeted sightings of the same unfamiliar vehicle near your home or places you visit.
  • Unusually fast battery drain from an always-on device if the tracker draws power from the vehicle.
  • An OBD-II device plugged into the port when you didn’t connect one yourself -these are common places for trackers to be hidden.

If you spot any of the above, don’t attempt dangerous or illegal action. Record details, take photos, and follow the steps below.

Signs your phone might be tracked

Phones are commonly targeted because they already have GPS and mobile data. Watch for:

  • Battery drain that’s much worse than normal.
  • Phone running hotter than usual even when idle.
  • Unfamiliar or new apps you don’t remember installing.
  • Strange text messages containing links or random characters.
  • Unexplained data usage spikes on your mobile bill or in settings.
  • Background noises or delays during calls (sometimes a symptom of call-monitoring software).
  • Location sharing enabled in apps (Google, Apple, social media) that you didn’t turn on.

These symptoms aren’t proof of tracking, they’re indicators that warrant investigation.

How to check for a physical tracker on your car

  1. Do a visual inspection
    Start with obvious places: under the car (wheel arches), the underside of bumpers, inside the wheel well, in the boot (under the carpet), and around the engine bay. Look for small black or magnetic boxes or fresh wiring. Use a torch and, if possible, view from multiple angles.
  2. Check the OBD port
    The OBD-II port (usually under the dash) is a common place to plug trackers. If there’s a dongle you don’t recognise, don’t just toss it, take photos, note any part numbers, and follow the “what to do next” advice below.
  3. Listen for beeps or blinking LEDs
    Some battery-powered trackers have tiny LEDs or make a sound when tapped. In a quiet place you might detect them.
  4. Use a radio frequency (RF) detector
    Spider small RF detectors can locate transmitting trackers by scanning for active signals. They are useful but not foolproof (some trackers only transmit occasionally).
  5. Get a professional inspection
    If you’re unsure, have a reputable workshop or security specialist carry out a sweep. Professional installers can open panels and check areas you might miss.

How to check if your phone is being tracked

  1. Review installed apps
    Go through all installed apps and remove anything unfamiliar. On iOS: Settings → General → iPhone Storage. On Android: Settings → Apps. Look for permissions that let apps access Location, Microphone or SMS.
  2. Check location-sharing settings
    • iPhone: Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services.
    • Android: Settings → Location → App permissions.
      Make sure only trusted apps have access.
  3. Scan for malware
    Run a reputable mobile security scan (look for well-known vendors in the Play Store or App Store). On Android, consider using multiple checks: Play Protect, then a respected scanner. On iPhone, malware is rarer but still possible via configuration profiles or jailbroken devices.
  4. Check data and battery usage
    See which apps use the most data or battery — an app reporting constantly in the background is suspicious.
  5. Factory reset if necessary
    If you find evidence of spyware or can’t remove suspicious software, back up your data and do a factory reset. Reinstall apps one-by-one and review permissions carefully.

Legal and safety considerations

  • Always act legally. Removing a device from a vehicle you don’t own, or accessing someone else’s phone without consent, can have legal consequences. If you suspect criminal behaviour or stalking, report it to the police.
  • Preserve evidence. Photograph anything suspicious, note dates/times of alerts or sightings, and keep screenshots of unfamiliar apps or messages. This helps the police or your insurer.
  • Privacy and relationship issues. If you discover tracking in a personal relationship, consider seeking advice from victim support services, some monitoring can be related to domestic abuse.

What to do next if you find signs of tracking

  • If the tracker is on your vehicle: Photograph it, avoid touching it if you think it’s linked to criminal activity, and call the police to report suspected unauthorised tracking. If you feel unsafe, withdraw to a safe place. You can also contact a reputable workshop (like Technical Vehicle Solutions) to remove and inspect the device professionally.
  • If your phone is compromised: Disconnect accounts, remove suspicious apps, change passwords (starting with your email), and consider a factory reset. Notify contacts if you suspect compromise.
  • If you’re unsure: Arrange a professional inspection for the vehicle or phone. Specialists can run RF sweeps, examine wiring, and perform forensic checks on devices.

Preventative tips

  • Keep valuables out of sight and lock your car.
  • Don’t leave keys or devices unattended in public.
  • Regularly check the OBD port and undercarriage if you park in high-risk areas.
  • Use strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and avoid installing unverified apps.
  • Fit a reputable, professionally-installed tracker if you want legitimate monitoring – Thatcham-approved units are preferable for insurance and recovery.

We can help

If you’re worried someone is tracking your car or phone, Technical Vehicle Solutions can carry out a professional vehicle sweep and advise on secure tracker installation or removal. We handle devices discreetly and will explain any insurance or recovery implications.

📞 Call us on 01763 230411 to discuss a vehicle sweep or tracker inspection.

Table of Contents

  • CONVERTIBLE
  • 2020
Technical Vehicle Solutions - autohomeei05
MAZDA MX-5
$6800
  • 2,500 km
  • Manual
  • MAZDA
Explore Your Vehicle

Book Your Replacement Car Key Today

Book Now
FROM OUR BLOG

Premium Cars Services

Reach us on WhatsApp
1