Does Google Track My Location?
Google Maps keeps a history of places you go on your Google Maps Timeline, even when the app isn’t open. Your Timeline syncs with Google Photos and other apps, which can help you remember when and where you took pictures and videos. However, if someone gets access to your Google account, they can find information you might not want them to know. If you have an Android or iOS device, Google tracks your whereabouts to help certain apps (like Google Maps) determine your location. You can disable location services, but some apps may not work correctly.
How Do I Stop Google From Tracking My Location?
If you don’t want Google Maps, Google Photos, and other apps tracking your location, follow these steps:
How Do I Get Rid of Tracking on My Google Timeline?
If you want to delete visits to a specific location on Google Maps, use the mobile app:
How to Manage Google Location Settings
On Android, you can disable location tracking for individual apps by managing your app permissions. You can choose what information each app can access from the Permission Manager. On iPhone and iPad, you can choose to enable location services only when an app is open by going to Settings > app > Location. Remember that turning off location tracking can prevent certain apps from functioning.
Hide Your Location With a VPN
If you disable Google location tracking, your internet provider and other websites can still determine your general location. Consider getting a virtual private network (VPN) to hide your location entirely. By masking your location, VPNs allow you to bypass regional restrictions on websites, so you can watch movies on Netflix that aren’t available in your country.
