Critical Samsung Galaxy Privacy Feature – Find Unknown Trackers

by | Jun 18, 2024 | Tutorial

Today, we’re diving into a crucial privacy feature on your Samsung Galaxy phone that you definitely need to be aware of. Even if you’re using another Android phone, this is still relevant. If you’re an iPhone user and have a secondary Android device, this is important to keep you and your family safe. Let’s get into it, and I’ll show you how find unknown trackers that might be moving with you without your knowledge.

Find Unknown Trackers 

Google just introduced the new Find My network for Android devices. The network comes with a whole host of new tracking tags from companies like Pebblebee and Chipolo. With these new devices out along with the already popular Apple AirTags and Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTags, it’s crucial to be aware of how these can be used by bad actors. While they serve great purposes, like keeping track of your belongings, they can also be misused to track people without their knowledge. This is why it’s essential to know when one of these trackers is following you or is in your belongings.

Here’s how to find unknown trackers your Samsung Galaxy phone:

  1. Go to Settings: Open your phone’s settings menu.
  2. Safety and Emergency: Scroll down and tap on ‘Safety and Emergency’.
  3. Unknown Tracker Alerts: At the bottom, you’ll see ‘Unknown Tracker Alerts’. Turn this on.

When this feature is enabled, you’ll get a notification if an unknown tracker is detected traveling with you. Alerts are deleted after 48 hours. You can also run manual scans without turning on your device location, though automatic scans require location services to be enabled.

check for unknown trackers

Manual Scans and Tracker Information

To run a manual scan:

  • Tap ‘Check for Trackers Near You’.
  • The manual scan will detect any nearby trackers not registered to you.

Trackers are small Bluetooth devices that can be attached to items like keys or backpacks. While useful, they can also be used for tracking people without their consent. This feature currently works with Android-specific trackers and Apple AirTags.

manual scan google

What to Do If You Find an Unknown Tracker

If you receive a tracker alert:

  1. Locate the Tracker: If you find it, tap ‘Next Steps’.
  2. Disable the Tracker: Follow the instructions to disable it.
  3. Ensure Safety: Be in a public place and contact law enforcement if you feel unsafe.

You can also use the ‘Play Sound’ feature to locate a tracker that’s moving with you.

Additional Steps for Samsung SmartTags

For those using Samsung SmartTags, there’s an extra step you can take:

  1. Open SmartThings: Go to your phone’s settings and search for ‘SmartThings’ under connected devices.
  2. Find Your Tag: Select one of your registered SmartTags.
  3. Search for Unknown Tags: Tap the three dots at the top right, go to ‘Help’, and select ‘Search for Unknown Tags Near You’.

This feature helps you find any Galaxy SmartTags that are not registered to your account and might be used to track you.

samsung scan for trackers

With the growing number of tracking devices, it’s essential to stay vigilant about your privacy. The new tracking alerts feature on Samsung and other Android phones helps you stay aware of any unknown devices that might be following you. Remember, if you find an unknown tracker, take the necessary steps to disable it and ensure your safety.

If you’re an avid Galaxy user, make sure to head over and sign up for our free mystery box program. Sign up now and get a free case, cleaning kit, and other accessories when you buy a new Galaxy smartphone through our affiliate link on launch day!

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