Why does it not matter to turn off location services on your phone? They will still track you and know your location that way
If you open your phone's settings, you'll find a location button. This button allows you to enable or disable location services. While it might seem related to privacy, the truth is that you can be tracked using other methods, as we'll explain. We'll discuss in detail the function of your phone's location button, what it does or disables, and the various ways you can be tracked.
The goal is to help you understand how much of your information is exposed online, whether you're browsing the internet or using apps. They may know more about you than you realize. Even if you disable location services, it doesn't mean they can't track you through other means.
What is the location button?
The Location button lets you choose whether or not your location can be tracked. It only affects GPS, as it's linked to it. If you disable it, GPS will stop working. You won't be able to use Google Maps for directions, for example, nor will fitness tracking apps or similar features work.
This setting is usually enabled because we constantly use apps that may need GPS access. However, it's very easy to disable—simply by pressing a button. This also helps save battery power, as your location won't be tracked.
Disabling location tracking might seem like a good idea for privacy. In theory, it would prevent access to your phone's GPS. However, this doesn't mean there aren't other ways to track you and know your location.
Keep in mind that if your phone is connected to the internet, achieving complete anonymity is extremely difficult these days. We are constantly exposed to tracking methods.
How are they able to track you?
The first option available to them for tracking you is your IP address. When browsing the internet, even with GPS disabled, your location is revealed through your IP address. When you visit any website, they can pinpoint your location. To avoid this, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which allows you to change your location. For example, you can browse as if you were in another country.
They can also pinpoint your location using cell towers. When your phone is connected, it receives signals from towers located in different places. This can reveal your location and allow them to know your exact whereabouts at any given moment, even if you are not using GPS.
Another alternative is Wi-Fi networks. Databases containing numerous access points exist, allowing them to pinpoint your exact location. They can even go further, tracking Wi-Fi signal strength and calculating the approximate distance to the access point. Bluetooth technology can achieve a similar result.
Furthermore, it should be noted that browsers may request access to the Global Positioning System (GPS) via an Application Programming Interface (API), and that Google, for example, may record your location even if you have disabled GPS.
In short, there are ways to track you even if you've turned off GPS on your phone. This could compromise your online privacy, even if you think you're protected by switching off GPS.