Many apps request access to your location, even when they don’t need it to function properly. Fortunately, both Android and iOS let you control which apps can see your location and when.
Here’s how to stop apps from tracking your location and protect your privacy:
On Android:
- Go to Settings
Open your phone’s Settings app. - Tap on ‘Location’
This is usually under “Privacy” or listed separately depending on your phone model. - Check App Permissions
Tap ‘App location permissions’ to see which apps can access your location. - Adjust Access
- Choose “Allow only while using the app” for apps that truly need it.
- Select “Deny” for apps that don’t.
- You can also use “Ask every time” if you want more control.
- Turn Off Location Services Entirely (Optional)
You can toggle off Location at the top of the screen, but this disables GPS for all apps, including maps.
On iPhone (iOS):
- Open Settings
Tap the Settings icon on your home screen. - Go to Privacy & Security > Location Services
- Manage Per-App Access
Scroll to view all apps with location access. Tap any app to choose from:- Never
- Ask Next Time Or When I Share
- While Using the App
- Always (use with caution)
- Turn Off Precise Location
Toggle Precise Location off if you don’t want apps to know your exact location. - Turn Off Location Services (Optional)
You can turn off Location Services at the top, but it will disable it for all apps.
Bonus Tip: Disable Location History
- Google Account → Visit Google’s Activity Controls
- Turn off Location History to stop storing your movement data.
Controlling location access helps protect your data and saves battery life. Check your settings regularly to keep your digital footprint in check.