How to Locate a Cell Phone Using GPS

Having a cell phone get lost or stolen is a stressful and harrowing experience. Many people keep all of their important contacts, voicemail messages and even photographs of important moments on their cell phone. Thankfully, many cell phones today are equipped with GPS locators, to allow you to find your phone should it become separated from you.

1. First: Set up your phone for GPS tracking

   In order to use GPS tracking on your phone, you need to first ensure your phone is set to use it. This means buying a GPS-enabled phone; any salesperson can tell you if the phone you plan to purchase has a GPS chip. Once you own a GPS-enabled phone, you need to set up access to this chip. There are many downloadable apps for smartphones that can do this for you. You also need to register this app with the relevant online service in order to track your phone when you do not have it with you.

2. Second: Test your tracking system

   Once you have your phone set up and registered with a GPS tracking system, make sure it works. Have a friend or family member take your phone to another known location. Log in to the website of the tracking service you have chosen. You should see a map, address or the co-ordinates of the current location of your phone.

3. Third: Track your phone

   Now that your phone is registered and you have tested your tracking system, you are all set to track your phone if it should get lost. If your phone is located at a business, you can call to have them hold it for you until you are able to collect it. If your phone is located at a residential address, you can first try to contact the person to see if they are willing to return it to you. If not, you have a location to provide to the police in order to reclaim your phone.