How to find a phone using another phone

You have lost your mobile phone or it was stolen from you. Find out how and where to find a stolen or lost Android phone, even if it is impossible to guess the approximate location where this could have happened. Of course, it's a shame to lose your phone. It stores a lot of information, from contacts to information about bank cards.

After all, a modern Android smartphone is a complex means of dialing; it is a compact computer in your pocket, without which many cannot imagine their active life.

Naive owners of a missing mobile phone immediately contact law enforcement agencies, write a loss report, hoping that the police will be able to find the gadget and give it back to you. But this move almost never gives a positive result - the amount of damage from losing a phone is small, so no one will especially try to find a smartphone, even if the location of the crime is known.

But there are several proven methods that will help you find your phone, even if it was stolen in a large and busy metropolis.

Review of proven ways to find an Android phone

The Android system was developed by Google, which cared about its reputation, so it created several service applications to find a lost phone. But in order to use them, you need to register in the system; this is simply necessary; only with an activated account can you try to find your Android device.

You also need to connect to the built-in GPS module from Google, which determines the location of the lost gadget.

In addition to service applications from Google, there are third-party applications that can also be used to find it by location, number or other data.

But even if you find your device, there is no guarantee that the mobile phone will be returned immediately - this can be dangerous, so it is better to contact law enforcement agencies for help in returning the lost device. Please do not try to resist scammers.

Under what conditions can you find a phone?

Unfortunately, using Google to search is not always possible. This requires the following conditions to be met:

You can find your smartphone only if it is turned on.
Previously, it was necessary to register on this portal and link a phone to it. It is important that the "Location" and "Find my device" functions are activated.
The Internet must be connected during the search.
You are logged into Google.

After this, you can use the services of the service. Typically, connecting to the Internet and logging into Google occurs automatically immediately after switching on. If at least one of the listed conditions is not met, then you will not be able to find the phone in this way.

How to find a smartphone via the Internet

The very first thing when you lose or steal a gadget is to open your Google account and go to the “Security” section.

If you have forgotten your Google account information, login and password, these methods will not help you.

Find the “Your devices” section and follow any link:

When you go to “Phone Management”, select the one you lost.

Here you can disable your Google account on your mobile phone, and thus protect some of your data.

Then follow the link-question “Lost your phone” and once again, having confirmed your account, you will be taken to management.

At this stage it is possible:

analyze recent actions
block phone
call it
log out of your account
contact the operator
block data

If you lose your smartphone nearby, activate the “Ring” function. The device will ring for 5 minutes at maximum volume, with a different sound from other signals. You will have enough time to detect your phone.

If your mobile phone is not nearby, use the “Find” function.

Tip : Using remote control, the best option is a complete lock. This way, at least, the attacker will not be able to blackmail you, knowing your personal data.

This function is especially useful for owners of corporate numbers, since confidential information that is not intended for unauthorized persons can be stored in memory.

But if it is turned off and there is no Internet, then it is not possible to detect a mobile phone through this service, so any manipulations with it will not help.

What to do if your phone is turned off

In this case, you cannot call it. However, it is possible to obtain information that relates to the period of time when it was connected to a Google account. This information in some cases can tell you where to look for a phone.

In order to take advantage of additional opportunities to search for a smartphone, you need to prepare for this in advance. To do this, link the phone to a Google account and activate the necessary functions. You can also use third-party applications or services.

4.7/5 — (25 votes)

“Find Device” – built-in search function

Any mobile phone is equipped with a search option, so it is quite possible to find a lost phone using the built-in “Find Device” functionality.

Through this function, you can disable all running applications or restore them, and the service is available for all Android from Google. There is no need to install other applications.

Find from computer

To find a lost mobile phone in case of theft, you will need an Internet connection on your computer via a browser to determine the location.

But this option may work if the Internet connection is connected, but if it is turned off, it will not be detected.

So, to locate your lost device, do the following:

open a browser on your computer, enter the site address https://www.google.com/android/find
log in to the service using your google account if prompted
All your devices will open, you just need to click on the device that you may have lost

After all the steps you will have the opportunity to:

complete blocking
complete destruction of all data in memory (during this operation, account data will also be erased)

During blocking, you can leave a message and add the number of any other subscriber to contact you.

This option is designed for decent people. By clicking on the green button, a call will be made to the number you specified.

Cleaning a mobile phone will lead to complete deletion of all data and after that the location of the device will not be able to be determined.

Search using another smartphone

For a more efficient search, you can use any other device of a family member or friend.

Go to the “Protection” or “Security” section in the device settings.

Find the “Find device” section and select the function of the same name.

You log in to search as a Guest by entering your Google account username and password.

Now you can perform all the actions described above when logging in from your computer.

Basic methods

Finding a phone is not easy, but it is possible. In order for the search not to be in vain, at least two conditions must be met:

On state of the device;
Active Google account.

In this case, the device must have access to the network. If the gadget has been reflashed, there is no connection on it - you won’t be able to find your lost phone.

Google account

Any device running the Android operating system is linked to the owner’s personal account. This procedure is carried out the first time you start the gadget, when the initial settings screen appears. Binding is needed to synchronize the device, create a backup copy, and for remote access and management.

Through a Google account, a user from a regular computer or laptop can find a smartphone. But this will require Internet access on another device:

Go to the official page in your browser to search for the device.
In the upper right corner, select the account to which the device is linked or log in with your username and password.
Refresh the page. All devices that are associated with this profile will appear in the field.
Click on the image and name of the lost device.

A map will appear in a new window with the approximate location of the device. In addition, the interface will offer three alternative functions: a 5-minute call to search for a device, blocking the gadget, and deleting data from the phone.

If the device is not linked to an account, then you will not be able to find it using this method. It is worth noting that the method works in the presence of two additional conditions, which will be discussed below.

Standard Android functionality

To find a lost Android device, you will have to enable two functions: “location” and “find device”. They are tied to the geolocation of the device and are responsible for finding the gadget if it is lost. If these options are inactive, the smartphone will not be able to take direction.

Enabling features:

Go to the “settings” of your device. Open the "security" tab. In some versions of Android, it is located under Location Protection or Google.
Enable the "Find device" option.
Return to the settings menu, select "Location". Activate this option.

If the GPS chip is faulty or it simply isn’t in the phone, then you won’t be able to find the device.

Branded utilities

Phone manufacturers are trying to expand the functionality of their devices by creating proprietary software. For example, Xiaomi or Huawei gadgets work under their own MIUI and EMUI shell; they have their own programs for finding a smartphone. Let's look at several additional utilities that are available from different manufacturers.

Xiaomi. The MIUI shell has a function called “Find Phone”. It operates on the basis of the Mi Cloud cloud service. To activate it, you need to register with your Mi account and enable the option: “Settings” -> “Mi Account” -> “Mi Cloud”. At the bottom of the menu, activate the “Find Device” function. After enabling this function, you can find your smartphone through your personal account in your Mi account.
Huawei. This brand faced the problem of localizing Google services on its own devices in 2019-2020. Therefore, standard solutions from Google may not work in some versions of EMUI firmware. Huawei’s own solution is implemented through the company’s cloud service. The tracking function is located in the “Phone Finder” section of the site. The option is activated through standard Android functionality.
Meizu. This company has developed its own application “Phone Finder”. Unfortunately, this application was removed from Google Play in 2022, so it can only be found on third-party resources. After registering in this utility, the lost mobile phone can be found using another device by entering your login and password. Another search method is to log into your account from the web version of the program.
Samsung uses built-in Android functionality for location tracking features. But you can track a lost cell phone not only through Google, but also through a special Samsung service. In this case, the device must be logged into a Samsung account.

These methods only work if a personal account from the manufacturer is enabled on your smartphone. Be sure to enable geolocation and an Internet connection on the lost device.

Third party programs

The standard set of programs and functions on the device is sometimes not enough. Applications from third-party developers will help expand the functionality. Let's look at a few of the most popular:

Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus. A complete application to protect your smartphone from theft, loss or the influence of virus software. The utility has an “Anti-Theft” function, which allows you to control the gadget remotely. It is highly rated among users and is distributed free of charge.

QR Code

Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus

Developer: Bitdefender

Price: Free

AVG AntiVirus. Another antivirus application that helps protect your phone from loss and malware. The program shows the location of the device on the map through the user’s personal account in the web version. There is a function for secretly recording conversations and any sounds from the speaker. One of the interesting features is secretly photographing the thief’s face when he tries to unlock the device.

QR Code

AVG Antivirus & Security

Developer: AVG Mobile

Price: Free

Avast Mobile Security. Another antivirus application with a search function. It has the function of finding a lost mobile phone using a map, wiretapping and tracking a thief in real time. It is distributed free of charge, but there are advertising modules.

QR Code

Avast Antivirus & Security

Developer: Avast Software

Price: Free

Lost Android. A special application for tracking and finding a lost smartphone. Works remotely via SMS commands or the website https://www.androidlost.com. Finds the gadget on the map, turns on the alarm and flickers the screen to attract attention. Secretly records the situation from the front and main cameras. Records sound from a microphone. Extensive functionality for remote device control. The downside is that the interface is only in English.

QR Code

Lost Android

Developer: Theis Borg

Price: Free

Cerberus. Morally outdated, but still a working application. Allows you to remotely control the gadget via the Internet, set off an alarm, secretly photograph the thief, block the device, and find it on the map. Download the latest version of the program from the official website of the developer.
Lookout. A free antivirus application with a built-in module for tracking stolen phones. It is implemented in the form of the “Phone Search” functions. This option has three useful features: the search itself, remote start of the siren, and fixation of the last point on the map when the battery charge is low. Lookout takes photos of the thief in the background as he tries to unlock the device. Reports are sent by email.

QR Code

Antivirus | Lookout

Developer: Lookout Mobile Security

Price: Free

Prey Anti Theft. An application focused on protecting the user’s personal data when a smartphone is stolen and allows you to find a lost gadget on a map. Notifies the user when the device leaves the permitted zone. Some functions only work in the full version of the program, but the free version is enough for searching. The downside is the English interface.

QR Code

Prey Anti Theft: Find My Phone & Mobile Security

Developer: Prey, Inc.

Price: Free

When installing all applications, you must grant permission to work with geolocation and other software sections of the device. Some application features may not be available on the latest versions of Android.

By IMEI

Have - also known as the identification number of a smartphone or telephone. Most often it consists of 15 digits, sometimes 17, absolutely any mobile phone has it, and even tablets with a SIM card. This number is needed to identify the gadget on the network. The number is displayed in the mobile operator’s database as soon as the user activates the SIM card. The cell phone sends the IMEI value every time it contacts the base station, even when it is turned off. The exchange of phone information with the tower does not occur if the battery is removed from the device.

Read more about this method in the article Track by IMEI.

Contact the police

If your mobile phone is lost or stolen, you should file a police report. To make the search process go faster, you need to:

Carry with you photocopies of documents for the lost smartphone: receipt, warranty card, service agreement with the mobile operator. You can show the originals and keep them for yourself. This way the documents will definitely not be lost.
When writing a statement, formulate the request: “about loss or possible theft,” even if you realize that the phone is lost. The case will be considered under a criminal article. It won't go on the table.
Remember all the details of the situation when you last saw the phone. It is advisable to remember several people who were close to you.
Estimate the damage at the maximum, not the estimated market price. It is best to take the purchase price of the device at the time of sale.
Don't forget to take a receipt indicating that the police accepted the application for consideration.

When talking with the investigator, describe the scene as if the phone was stolen. For example: “The last time I saw a smartphone was in my briefcase; after a trip to the subway, the cell phone disappeared. Perhaps it was stolen while I was holding the handrails.” But don't imagine too much. Describe only those places where you have actually been.

You should contact the police if the device cannot be found on your own: it does not answer calls or is turned off (discharged), standard programs and applications do not help, geolocation (via satellite) does not show the location, a search from an alternative phone did not produce results.

Finding a phone using an operator

Using IMEI, you can track the approximate location (sector) of the smartphone from where the signal was received. This information is stored for a limited amount of time in the operator’s company logs. In theory, you need to make a request to each operator in your home region. As soon as the cell phone is turned on, it will transmit a signal to the base station. This will reduce the search radius. However, only law enforcement officers can do this.

In practice, finding a phone through Imay is quite problematic if we are talking about a real theft. The police can find a smartphone using its identification number. However, most often, it is not the criminal himself who is found, but the person to whom the stolen goods were resold. Plus the whole process takes quite a lot of time.

If the user found the device himself, for example, at home or at work, but has already reported it missing to the police, there is no need to worry. It is necessary to submit a new application to terminate the criminal case in connection with the location of the property. If the first statement specifically indicated “loss or possible theft,” then the applicant will not fall under Part 1 of Art. 306 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (committing a knowingly false denunciation of a crime committed). He will not have to pay a fine or face any other type of liability.

Using another smartphone

This method should be used immediately after your smartphone goes missing. It will require: a second phone (of a friend, colleague, relative, acquaintance), access to your Google personal account (login and password). On the second device you need to install the “FindMyDevice” application, which is linked to the user account.

QR Code

Find My Device

Developer: Google LLC

Price: Free

After installing the program, set additional parameters:

Go to “Settings”, then to “Security”.
Go to "Devices and Credentials". Go to "Device Administrators".
Here you need to select the “Find Device” program as the main administrator of the device.
Log in to the installed application using your own username and password.

Further, the interface is similar to a similar web solution from Google. The user can see the gadget on the mini-map, call it, block it or delete all data.

Finding a phone using Google Maps

You should make sure that your smartphone has Internet access or that the mobile communications and location option is turned on. If everything is turned off, then it will be impossible to find through this option
On your PC, open the Google search engine and go to the “Maps” section (under your account)

At the top left, open the “Chronology” position – here you need to specify the exact date of the search.
After these steps, the lost phone should be found, and you can see the location on the map

Child loses phones

Sending a child to school without a phone is exciting. But when a child constantly loses a device (leaves it on windowsills, desks, in the locker room or who knows where) it’s time to sound the alarm.

According to statistics, between the ages of 6 and 15, every fifth child loses their phone on average once every two months. Therefore, there is no reason to think that your “bungler” is unique. First of all, try to calmly understand why these constant losses occur. Maybe the child simply doesn’t understand the value of the phone and doesn’t consider it his thing? Maybe the student is too busy and distracted, or maybe he wants a more expensive model? Perhaps the high school students simply took the phone away, and the child is afraid to confess. Try to discuss the problem and find a solution. But in order to prevent the loss from happening again, prepare your child’s phone for searching.

You can search for your child’s smartphone through installed family tracker apps. Moreover, they combine “two in one” - they allow you to reduce your anxiety for the student (in case of danger, the child can send an “SOS” signal) and, if something happens, find the missing smartphone.

Third-party applications for finding a gadget

Let's look at the work of 3 popular services to find a lost phone.

All of these applications will help if you play it safe in advance and install one of them.

Lost Android or lost Android

You can download the program from the Google play store. After installation, the application will change its icon to a picture of a notepad - this is what the creators intended so that attackers would not be able to recognize the working detection function.

The setup consists of several stages:

give him device administrator rights - this will be needed to block or destroy all information
you also need to allow the software to access the browser interface

Quick Questions and Answers

Some users do not know where the device is located and what it is needed for. Another question is remote access to data, with a changed account and reset settings.

Where to find it

Identification number look:

On the box. Most often it is located on a sticker label with the product specification and the serial number of the device.
On the warranty card, less often on the receipt.
Under the battery or SIM slot - in old smartphones with a removable battery.
On a removable SIM card tray.
Some manufacturers indicate IMEI on the smartphone body. For example, on iPhone.
By entering the USSD command: “*#06#” in the device dialer. (enter without quotes).
On Android: go to Settings -> About Phone -> All Settings -> General Information. On iOS: Go to Settings -> General -> About This Device.

The first two points will be useful if the gadget is already lost. The rest should be used before it goes missing in order to record the number in a safe place.

Why is IMEI needed?

The number is used to identify the smartphone radio in the operator’s cellular network. The user needs IMEI to prove that he is the owner of the gadget. It is worth noting that devices with two or more SIM cards have a corresponding number of identification numbers. That is, for two SIM cards there are two different IMEIs.

Is it possible to find it via the Internet?

If we are talking about services from Google, Apple or branded applications (cloud services) from technology manufacturing companies - yes, really. Searching through unverified resources by entering IMEI is dangerous. Often such sites hide virus programs or common scammers. Data about the latest actions on a smartphone for a specific IMEI can only be provided by a mobile operator, and only at the request of law enforcement agencies.

Searches by IMEI via satellites - MYTH

Geolocation search (GPS) is not a myth. This is exactly how all standard services and most applications for finding a smartphone are designed. However, they will only work if the mobile phone is still linked to the user’s personal account, he has access to the Internet, and geolocation is enabled on the device. Without the subscriber's consent, tracking is not possible.

How to protect your data without access to your smartphone

You can lock the device remotely, through the Google search web resource or by installing the FindMyDevice application. These programs have a separate “block” option. Some third-party applications have similar functionality.

Is it possible to find Android devices with reset settings and a changed account?

Yes, there is such a possibility. Even if the attacker did a factory reset and logged in with a new account.

Search algorithm:

Log in to your account on your PC or laptop. Click on the “Manage Google Account” button.
In the new window, click on “Data and personalization” in the left menu.
Click on "Location History".

The system will show entry points on all devices recently. Here you can see the movement of the lost smartphone. This method works if the user has previously activated the “Location History” function in his profile.

Review of proven ways to find an Android phone

You also need to connect to the built-in GPS module from Google, which determines the location of the lost gadget.

In addition to service applications from Google, there are third-party applications that can also be used to find it by location, number or other data.

Free satellite search

You can track your Android by satellite only if you contact law enforcement agencies, a repair center or the manufacturer's company. In the first case, specialists work using the SIM card number. There are special programs that peel the location of the device. An important criterion in this case is the ability to track only if there is a SIM card on the phone. If it is removed, it will be difficult to track the device.

A turned off Android can be found by the IMEI number - a serial number that identifies the device. The number is always unique and can be found at the manufacturer’s office.

How to find a smartphone via the Internet

The very first thing when you lose or steal a gadget is to open your Google account and go to the “Security” section.

If you have forgotten your Google account information, login and password, these methods will not help you.

Find the “Your devices” section and follow any link:

When you go to “Phone Management”, select the one you lost.

Here you can disable your Google account on your mobile phone, and thus protect some of your data.

Then follow the link-question “Lost your phone” and once again, having confirmed your account, you will be taken to management.

At this stage it is possible:

analyze recent actions
block phone
call it
log out of your account
contact the operator
block data

If your mobile phone is not nearby, use the “Find” function.

Tip : Using remote control, the best option is a complete lock. This way, at least, the attacker will not be able to blackmail you, knowing your personal data.

This function is especially useful for owners of corporate numbers, since confidential information that is not intended for unauthorized persons can be stored in memory.

But if it is turned off and there is no Internet, then it is not possible to detect a mobile phone through this service, so any manipulations with it will not help.

Always be ready

As you can see, despite modern technology, it is sometimes difficult to detect a phone, especially if someone has tried everything to prevent it from being found. Therefore, it is better to prepare in advance for such turns of fate.

If your phone is lost in an apartment or house, then there is an excellent service to find your phone. This service allows you to make a call simply by entering your phone number and clicking the “Call” button. All! Your phone rings in your pocket or under the couch cushion.

Make sure you have a secure lock

Phone authentication using a fingerprint or password is reliable protection. It is no coincidence that Google Pay refuses to work if you have not installed such a lock on your phone.

But at the same time, you shouldn’t count on Face ID, since technologies are not so developed yet, and they can easily be deceived by providing your photo for scanning. However, it is worth noting that the developers of the latest Google Pixel and Apple models claim that their artificial intelligence can easily recognize this trick.

Of course, we understand all the inconveniences you will face every time you want to look at notifications on your phone. But the thought of your photos, bank card information and other personal data falling into the wrong hands should frighten and upset you much more. The potential consequences are much greater than the effort you put into unlocking the screen.

Enable the function on your phone that determines your geolocation

Many people are annoyed that their phone knows too much about them. Therefore, they try to minimize the personal information available to the gadget. And that's why they disable Find My Device services.

But this will complicate the search for your phone if something happens to it! Therefore, it is better to make sure in advance that such a service tracks the position of your phone.

For Google services , go to your phone settings and find a similar option:

Google Services - Find My Device
Security - Find Device
Protection and Location - Security

Then activate the free one. It will help you remotely lock your phone or delete personal data if your gadget gets lost.

If you are the owner of a Samsung , then it makes sense to activate “Search for device”. This option is stored in the “Biometrics and Security” section, and consists of 3 parts: “Remote unlocking”, “Last location”, “Offline search”. If you want reliable protection, activate all 3 points.

If your phone runs on Windows for mobile devices (not suitable for Android), you can set up the “Search for device” option from your Microsoft account, not only from the smartphone itself, but also from any other device.

For an iPhone, you'll need to go to Settings, select your name, then open Find My and move the slider to the active position next to Find [device name].

If none of these options work for you, try searching the app store for a similar service.

“Find Device” – built-in search function

Any mobile phone is equipped with a search option, so it is quite possible to find a lost phone using the built-in “Find Device” functionality.

Through this function, you can disable all running applications or restore them, and the service is available for all Android from Google. There is no need to install other applications.

Find from computer

To find a lost mobile phone in case of theft, you will need an Internet connection on your computer via a browser to determine the location.

But this option may work if the Internet connection is connected, but if it is turned off, it will not be detected.

So, to locate your lost device, do the following:

open a browser on your computer, enter the site address https://www.google.com/android/find
log in to the service using your google account if prompted
All your devices will open, you just need to click on the device that you may have lost

After all the steps you will have the opportunity to:

complete blocking
complete destruction of all data in memory (during this operation, account data will also be erased)

During blocking, you can leave a message and add the number of any other subscriber to contact you.

This option is designed for decent people. By clicking on the green button, a call will be made to the number you specified.

Cleaning a mobile phone will lead to complete deletion of all data and after that the location of the device will not be able to be determined.

Required search conditions

To use the Find My Device service on your phone, you must activate geolocation and add a Google account . Also provide Internet access for quick search.

Instructions for adding an account

Connect your phone to mobile or wireless Internet.
Open the settings section.
Select "Accounts".
Next, select the “Add account” option.
Enter your Google account.
On the next page, enter the details of the previously created account.

If you don't have an account, create an account on the same page. Learn more about how to create a Google account from your phone. As well as creating a Google account via a computer.

Instructions for enabling geolocation

Open the settings section.

Select "location".

Turn on navigation on your phone. Confirm the action, optionally adjust the accuracy.

Return to the system settings menu.

Select Google.

Next is the “Security” item.

Select "Find device".

Enable remote search.

Instructions for Android 10

Go to system settings.

Select the "Security" section.

In the next menu, click on “Find device”.

Activate the Find My Device function.

If necessary, enable geolocation. Click on the notification about the need to activate geodata.

In the dialog box, click on the “Enable” button.

Finally, in the next menu, activate the navigation function.

Finding a phone using Google Maps

You should make sure that your smartphone has Internet access or that the mobile communications and location option is turned on. If everything is turned off, then it will be impossible to find through this option
On your PC, open the Google search engine and go to the “Maps” section (under your account)

At the top left, open the “Chronology” position – here you need to specify the exact date of the search.
After these steps, the lost phone should be found, and you can see the location on the map

Timeline from Google

Here's what you need to do. Go to Google Places Timeline (formerly Google Maps Location History) and make sure the calendar is set to the current day. In the left sidebar, you can see the full timeline for that day, including the names of all recorded locations. On the right you can see all the places shown on the map.

In addition to Find Your Device, which uses satellite GPS for tracking, Timeline uses cell tower IDs and Wi-Fi location to collect device location data. This way you can identify frequently visited places where a thief might live or work. This will help the police catch whoever stole the phone.

Third-party applications for finding a gadget

Let's look at the work of 3 popular services to find a lost phone.

All of these applications will help if you play it safe in advance and install one of them.

Lost Android or lost Android

The setup consists of several stages:

give him device administrator rights - this will be needed to block or destroy all information
you also need to allow the software to access the browser interface

The entire search process will take place through a browser on a computer using a Google account.

The application is equipped with advanced features and can help:

when calling and turning on vibration
to determine location
reading all SMS messages or sending new ones
determining whether a device is in the network zone (on or off)
through it you can activate Wi-Fi, flash, redirect incoming calls to another device, open a list of incoming and outgoing connections, browsing history in the browser and much more

You can even take a hidden photo with the back or front camera of your lost device. And the one who has it will not suspect anything.

Rear camera shot

Some Android OS developer options are already included in the functionality of smartphones, but the options of this program are much wider.

This video explains how to install the program on a stolen phone and how to find the lost device.

Avast Anti-Theft service

Many people use antivirus software from Avast, and should know that the company is actively involved in the problems of protecting mobile devices, which is why this software was created.

When you first activate the application, a message will be displayed about protecting the entire system from intrusion; for this, the code you created is used.
To work, you need to link the software with your mobile phone number and indicate the additional number of the other subscriber.
Grant administration permission, as this is the only way to take advantage of useful features.

Once the smartphone falls into the wrong hands and the attackers notice that they are being watched, the application cannot be removed, since it will require entering a code that the thieves probably do not know.
You can enable geolocation remotely through the software, this will help determine the location of the mobile phone.

But otherwise, the operation of Avast Anti-Theft is standard, you can call, determine where the stolen device is, block or erase all data.

Web control of the phone from a computer is carried out using the link: https://my.avast.com/ru-ru/#devices

However, the developers offer a paid version, which has much wider functionality than the standard and free versions. The cost is low, if there is a need to protect information if the device is lost, then you can consider this option.

AirDroid - mobile phone search

You can find your phone using the AirDroid program, synchronized with the Web version. The principle of use is similar to the applications described above.

How to install, connect and use all functions of the application is described earlier in the article.

Mobile applications

There are specialized applications for collecting information about the phone and searching for it. The following describes the most popular of them. An important advantage of such devices is that they operate continuously. With their help, you can track your phone without the need to connect to your Google account. These actions are available as long as you have an active Internet connection.

Cerberus Phone Security

It's possible. It will not only indicate where the application is located, but also allow you to control it remotely. This can be done by sending commands via the Internet or using SMS messages.

Using the program you can perform the following actions:

Find the gadget.
Start a sound signal that can be used to determine the location of the phone.
Block information that is on your phone.
Delete data, protecting it from unauthorized access.
If the phone has been stolen, the application will allow you to take a photo of the thief.

The program allows you to make backup copies of the data contained on it.

Where's My Droid

By installing the program on your phone, the user can be sure that he will not lose the gadget. The application's capabilities provide not only search, but also other functions. Here are the main ones:

If necessary, you can give a command so that the phone emits a loud signal for several minutes. In some situations, this may be enough to find the phone.
The location coordinates of the device can be obtained via SMS message.
It is possible to photograph the person who currently has the phone and forward the resulting image.
If necessary, it is possible to delete data and modules so that confidential information does not reach third parties.
It is possible to completely block the functions of the device.

Functions 3, 4, 5 are available in the paid version of the program. Application .

Lost Android

This program is completely free. It has a wide range of functions. By installing it in advance, you can be sure that if it goes missing, everything possible will be done to facilitate the search process. It allows you to do the following:

Remotely turn on or off GPS, Wi-Fi.
Monitor all calls on your smartphone.
You can sound an alarm or make the screen flicker.
You can take a photo with any of the available cameras.

If the SIM card is replaced, the program will track this action and send a message to the pre-specified email address. Android Lost is present on the gadget almost invisibly, not appearing in the menu. If the phone was stolen, it will be difficult to find out whether this program was installed. Program.

Lookout Security&Antivirus

The program is available on Google Play. It is free. The program not only makes it easier to find your gadget, but also protects it from viruses. It controls the integrity of the operating system. The condition of the gadget is constantly monitored.

If the battery loses charge, the last location of the Android is recorded. There is a paid version of the application that provides additional features.

Name	Description	Rating
Lost Android	Free program with a wide range of functions	★★★★★
Lookout Security&Antivirus	The paid version of the application includes many useful options.	★★★★★
Cerberus Phone Security	Convenient and reliable tool for finding a smartphone	★★★★★
Where's My Droid	Free application with basic phone search functions	★★★★★

Basic moments

At the moment, not only Apple smartphones can be tracked using remote access.

The Android system also has its own tricks in this regard. You can use both special programs and internal resources.

However, the fact that you find the location of your smartphone, unfortunately, does not guarantee its return.

If you forgot it while visiting, it's not so bad. If your phone is in an area unknown to you, it has been stolen.

But rushing directly at the robber can be overly dangerous. It's worth contacting the police.

Find your phone offline

As you probably already understood, all services are ready to show the location of your phone only if your phone is turned on and geotagging is activated on it. But what if the phone is offline?

Samsung phones there is an “Offline search” option, where other Galaxy devices will participate in detecting your phone (it’s a pity this is only available for those devices with Android version 8 and higher). They will try to contact your phone via Bluetooth and forward location data to the server.

iPhones My Network feature. If it is active, then you will be able to find your device even if it cannot connect to the Internet.

Andro Remote Control >

Android Remote Control

In fact, the ability to track a smartphone running Android OS, as well as change access settings for it remotely, appeared relatively recently - in 2013.

Thus, you need to go to a special menu, where the following functions will be available:

Search;
Ring the phone;
Block your smartphone;
Clear data.

It is best to do this on your own computer so that the data does not fall into the wrong hands.

After this, a menu with a map will open, where you can see the location of your smartphone.

Also, if the device is connected to the Internet, then you can see other nuances, for example, the battery charge and the status of the smartphone (online/offline).

Moreover, you don’t need to install anything, these are all built-in capabilities of the phone.

Features of remote access functionality

Thus, if you simply cannot find the phone at home, then you can use the call function.

A standard melody plays for 5 minutes. And it doesn’t matter whether the smartphone is on or off.

Even if you have a different SIM card installed on it or the sound is turned off, you will still hear a signal.

This opportunity is especially relevant for those who use the phone for work purposes and keep contacts and data on it that are not subject to wide publicity.

In any case, it’s worth at least blocking your phone so that attackers don’t resort to blackmail with your own data.

Google determines the location of the device using GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular networks, even if a different SIM card is installed in the smartphone.

However, if the phone is completely disconnected, you will be notified that the phone was not found.

So, the search function is useful, but not 100% reliable.

In addition, you may be shown an outdated location of your smartphone, for example, if it was in view a few days ago.

Typically the last location and time of last activity are displayed.

Connecting remote access to the device

If you have a Google account, then after connecting it to the device itself,

Also check that your data is synced to make sure your phone and Google have a good connection.

In fact, this is the advantage of the built-in remote access service - you do not need additional programs or installing new firmware. Everything is already programmed.

How to find a phone by IMEI?

IMEI is an individual code assigned to each cell phone (from regular push-button phones to Android smartphones and iPhones), and if the device has more than one SIM card slot, to each of them separately. Thus, the IMEI is directly linked to the SIM card currently in use, and theoretically the phone can be tracked by the operator only using this number.

In reality, everything is more complicated. A company that provides cellular communication services will not undertake such complex and non-revenue-generating work on its own. The user (it doesn’t matter if he forgot his phone at home and cannot determine which nightstand the device fell behind, or knows for sure that the device was stolen) will have to file a report of theft with the police , and then hope that government officials will conduct a search not only on paper . Every city receives several dozen such statements a day, and, to put it mildly, they are not a priority - which means you can simply forget about your lost smartphone.

Important: there are still many services on the Internet that offer to find a device by IMEI for a reasonable fee. You should not use them: some of these sites do not function at all, while others are created to defraud the visitor of personal data, money, or both.

Lost Ando >

You can also always use additional applications to find an Android phone.

One of the popular software is “Lost Android” (trans. Lost Android).

Once you have installed this application, you should not be surprised when it suddenly changes the design of the icon - this is the developer’s tactics.

Externally, the shortcut resembles more of a notebook, but inside it is a full-fledged program for tracking your device.

The developer decided to take such a move in order to disguise himself from intruders.

Settings

Setting up Lost Android

When you first access this application, you will need to give it administrator rights.

This is necessary to provide functions such as blocking and deleting all information from the phone. After this, you will hardly have to use Lost Android without a reason.

Functionality and management

Further, all functions are provided to the user through the web interface using your Google account (don’t forget to give the program access to it).

The functionality of this software is somewhat greater than the built-in remote control in the Android system.

Lost Android features are as follows:

Ring your smartphone and turn it on to vibrate;
Determining your location using both a GPS sensor and mobile communications; connecting to Wi-Fi can also help in this regard;
Read received messages, as well as send SMS;
Determine the status of the smartphone;
Turn on wireless networks, GPS, Bluetooth, flash, redirect calls, get a list of calls and installed applications, history of visited sites in the browser, display a pop-up message and a message when loading;
Blocking of data, as well as their complete deletion;
Take a photo using a cunning scheme: a message pops up, when you press it, the front camera turns on and you can capture the robber;
Record ambient sounds on a voice recorder.

In fact, this program is quite powerful regarding remote control.

Some possibilities can be achieved with the help of Google, but even it does not provide such scale.

In this case, tracking the phone and finding the robber is much easier.

In addition, the main version of the Lost Android program costs nothing.

You only need to pay for some additional features. You decide for yourself whether you need them or not. Overall, the program works great.

Anti-phone theft apps

Many mobile applications have been developed for Android smartphones to prevent theft, destroy personal data, or at least find out where the device is currently located. The three best programs are listed below - the user can install any of them or find another.

Cerberus

In first place is a convenient application that takes up minimal space, allows you to track the location of your phone and offers a number of additional functions. You need to use it as follows:

Download and run, then provide all the necessary permissions and begin creating an account.

Create a username and password and provide the application with the email address required to work with your account.

Accept the developers' terms and conditions and begin setting up the program.

Grant Cerberus administrator rights.

On the main page, check the boxes that allow the application to clear the phone’s memory using a remote command - this is necessary to protect the owner’s privacy if the smartphone is stolen or lost.

On the “Automatic photo capture” tab, allow the program to take a photo with the front camera if the password is entered incorrectly or the alarm is turned off.

On the “SIM Check” tab, specify the cell number to which the message should be sent if an unauthorized SIM card is inserted into the device.

Great! Now the user can go to the website cerberusapp.com at any time and log in to his personal account.

Send the “Start tracking” command.

Click on the GPS logo.

And see on a satellite map where his device is now located.

In addition, by selecting commands from the drop-down list, the user can reboot a lost or stolen phone, take a screenshot and clear the device’s memory if returning the device is definitely not possible.

Avast Mobile Security

After downloading and installing a free antivirus, a smartphone owner who wants to protect his device from theft must:

Go to the “Settings” section by tapping on the three horizontal lines in the upper left corner of the screen.

Enter the Anti-Theft section.

Set a PIN code to log into the application.

Grant the program the necessary permissions.

Click on the “Configure web control” button.

If desired, install a graphic key.

And click on the “Activate Anti-Theft” button.

Set additional program settings: forced blocking of a lost device, taking a picture with the front camera, and others.

Now, go to subscriptions.avast.com and log in using the same account.

Go to the "Devices" list.

And select your phone with a mouse click.

Now, using the “Find” command.

The user will see on the satellite map where the device is currently located, and even the approximate address in the top line.

In addition, in the same window you can clear the phone's memory by deleting confidential data, send a message to it with a suitable text, or make a call.

Lost Android

Mastering this application is no more difficult than going through the Apple ID recovery procedure; the user's procedure is no different from the manipulations described above, and there is no point in talking about it again. The program is free, easy to use, and you can find your phone on the map by logging in to androidlost.com.

Where's My Dro >

Where's My Droid app

This application can also be easily found and downloaded on the Play Market. After this, you will be provided with the following remote control options:

Control your own smartphone from someone else’s device;
Connection to a special Commander interface on a computer;
Remote call (beep);
Setting up password protection;
Device camera control;
Automatically send messages when the battery is low about the location of the smartphone;
Notification about changing the SIM card in your smartphone.

Essentially, this application performs all the basic functions for finding a lost phone.

Control using Commander

The application itself will indicate the address to your remote access interface.

There you can track your device thanks to the GPS sensor.

If it is disabled, then the application will not be able to help; it does not determine the location over the Internet. However, you can remotely manage files, turn on the camera, and the signal.

Peculiarities

No matter how good this program is, its free version is significantly limited.

And constantly popping up advertisements annoy everyone.

So it makes sense to use the paid professional version. It costs about 4 dollars. In fact, it's not very expensive.

But if you are only interested in primitive functions for finding a lost phone, then you can get by with the built-in functions.

Where My Droid

The core features of the Where My Droid app will allow you to call a lost phone, locate it using GPS on Google Maps, and use a passcode to prevent unauthorized changes to the device. When you change the SIM card, you immediately receive a notification, and the stealth mode is available.

There is a Stealth Mode that will not allow a thief to view incoming text messages. You can use SMS messages to control your device. The paid version allows you to remotely wipe data, lock the device, and control the front and rear cameras to take a photo of the intruder.

Avast Anti-Theft

Once downloaded, the software will prompt you to secure the internal configuration. This is done using code.

In addition, you need to link the application to your Avast account or mobile phone number.

In addition, it is worth indicating an additional number, but not your own, but a trusted person (friend, relative, etc.). Alerts will be sent to the second number if the SIM card is changed.

It is worth giving the application access to administrator rights so that you can use all the functions to the fullest.

The range of remote access capabilities of this software is standard, but what is noteworthy is that you can enable geodata remotely.

You can even turn on GPS so as not to get caught by intruders - hide the GPS image itself from the panel.

Protection

The application also provides the user with a special opportunity to protect the phone.

Moreover, even if robbers notice that they are being tracked, they will not be able to remove the program. To uninstall the software, you must enter the same number of the authorized person.

Location

The program determines where your smartphone is using geolocation. All this is displayed on a special interface for remote access.

There you can manage all functions to protect your data or find your device.

Versions

Although Avast offers a good basic version, the professional version will be more functional. However, you will have to pay at least $2 per month for it, although there is also an annual package.

How to protect yourself from losing your phone?

Don't carry your phone in shallow pockets. It is better to carry it in pockets that zip up.
Check your phone's location before changing your location. Train yourself to put it in the same place in your bag, and not in a random section or pocket.
Store all important information, contacts and favorite photos in the cloud (for example, iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive, Yandex.Disk, Mail.ru Cloud and the like). This way you will have access to them in any case. Synchronize regularly.
To avoid theft, do not show your phone, especially an expensive one, to others unless necessary. Do not leave your phone in a visible place unattended: on a table in a cafe, in a gym locker room, in an open car, or even in your workplace (especially if others can get into it). Teach your child not to leave his phone unattended on his desk at school or university.
Set up a screen lock. Do not use the same PIN/password for different applications and services. Don't store passwords in your phone case.
Many smartphones allow you to indicate contact information on the screen when the lock is turned on in case of loss. Place your e-mail or phone number of a loved one there.
It is not recommended to purchase expensive mobile phones for minor children.
Keep the documents on your phone or the box containing the device identification number for as long as possible.
Just in case, save a screenshot of the identification numbers in the cloud. IMEI will come in handy if you have to contact the police. Information can also be found on your phone in the Settings section. Or, dial the code *#06# and make a call (works from any phone) .
If you decide to go into the forest to pick mushrooms, go hiking, or go to a place where there is not a connection everywhere (let alone the Internet), try to put your phone down so that it does not fall out. Otherwise, no tricks will help.
Install the application for the most accurate geolocation (we'll talk about them below).

SeekDro >

In the application itself, you define the configuration: how activation, data deletion, formatting, etc. will occur.

Control

In this regard, the familiar web interface will help us. However, tracking your device requires a GPS connection.

Without it, you won’t be able to determine your location, and you won’t be able to work remotely either. So this is a significant disadvantage of this software.

However, if everything is in order, you can start a sound signal and display a message on the phone screen.

Also, through remote access, you will find out basic information about the smartphone: charge, IMEI and SIM card number, as well as the last few calls made.

However, the latter applies to English-language names. The program displays Cyrillic writing poorly, but the number itself is clearly visible.

SeekDroid: Find My Phone can be made invisible, you can also set a password for the lock screen and erase all data on the device.

Versions

The main version of the program is free, but, like other applications, it is a little stripped down. For example, the professional version supports managing not just one device, but several.

You will also be able to see the movement history for a month, and the smartphone itself will signal you about its stay from time to time. The extended subscription itself is somewhat expensive: from 4 to 20 dollars per month.

VIDEO: How to protect your data?

How to find a lost or stolen phone?

Tips for Android, Windows or iOS devices

Google Find My Device

Find My Device is Google's official tool for tracking your lost Android phone or tablet, no installation required. All you have to do is go to the Find My Device website using your Google account. The site will automatically try to determine the location of your phone.

In a recent update, Google has introduced new features on the search page: you can quickly find any registered Android device right in the search results, as you usually search for some information. If you enter the phrase “where is my phone,” Google will display a small map above the search results.

You can track a lost device from someone else's phone. To do this, use the Find My Device application. They log in using guest mode and a Google account. Now you can track your lost device, make it ring or erase data.

Can't find your Android this way? There may be 2 reasons for this: it is not connected to the Internet or is turned off.

conclusions

In fact, at the moment, tracking a lost device is not particularly difficult, but in most cases you need to take care of the safety of your data and the device itself in advance.

Once lost, you will not be able to install additional applications remotely. Maximum - take advantage of the capabilities built into the system.

They work great, but their functionality is rather poor. However, this is all done for free.

So it’s worth finding a suitable program for your phone now so as not to suffer in the future. Moreover, sometimes it is difficult to find a smartphone at home, and a sound signal will be very useful.

Alternative search methods

Some people use the newly released top model from the flagship line of a well-known manufacturer, while others are used to an old push-button phone and are not eager to part with it. Losing any phone is a sad event for the owner. Let's see what owners of “non-smartphones” can do to prevent loss (by the way, others can try these methods too).

Method 1

Almost every cellular operator in Russia (MTS, Megafon, Beeline, Tele2) has its own geolocation service. Until recently, such a service from any operator could be used (for a fee) by owners of non-smartphones. Now, for example, MTS requires an application to call a service. But most operators still have versions for simple dialers.

Please note: the phone must have your SIM card. The phone must be within the coverage area of mobile operators. A one-time consent of the phone owner is required for tracking (which means you need to enable the service before it is lost). The error is up to 1 km.

Some operators allow you to track multiple numbers, including numbers from other operators. More information about operator services can be found at the following links:

"Beeline-Coordinates"	https://coordinates.beeline.ru/
"Locator" from Beeline	https://locator.beeline.ru/#/landing
MTS SEARCH	https://poisk.mts.ru/mts-poisk-authorise/#/ (you need to download the application)
"Radar" (Megafon)	https://radar.megafon.ru
"Geosearch" from Tele2	https://perm.tele2.ru/option/geosearch

Method 2

If the services are not connected, simply ringing the phone has no effect, you can’t find the phone where you last saw it, find the box and documents from the device, if there is no box, take with you the IMEI previously written out on a piece of paper ( we remind you that you can find out by dialing *#06# on your phone ) and contact the police. Don't forget to block your SIM card. Fraudsters can use it for evil purposes, and you will have to pay. By the way, you should contact the police if you couldn’t find your smartphone. This does not at all guarantee the return of the device, but suddenly a miracle happens and your mobile phone is found.

Before buying my first iPhone, I was faced with the situation of irretrievably losing my phone many times. The method of contacting the police practically does not work. Even combined with information from tracker applications. I still receive email notifications about numbers of subscribers who use my lost phone, but the police have not found it. A year ago I had the opportunity to try Apple's service, and I was very pleased. We immediately blocked the phone through my husband’s phone and wrote a message for those who found it. It was at a big festival, and people thought they were lucky to find someone else's phone. But then, apparently, someone from the younger generation made it clear that iPhones “don’t reset” and you won’t be able to use a locked device. A couple of hours later they returned the phone to the cafe where I left it.
— Lily

How to prevent the loss of a smartphone

To make it easier to find a lost Android phone:

keep geolocation active - this consumes more energy, but increases the chances of finding the device;
Use gadget search services integrated into the firmware or similar functions available in antivirus programs.

We recommend: How to remove Google Play services on Android

About activating built-in services:

Proceed to " Settings ". Find " Security/Biometrics " or similar tab.
From the list, open “ Find Phone ” or “ Phone Finder ”, just like in Flyme.
Turn on "Phone search" Follow the instructions provided: log in with an additional account, etc.

Why might you need it?

This is individual for each person. The most common reason is the loss or theft of a mobile device , especially if important data is stored on the phone. And with the help of special tracking services, you can not only determine the location, but also remotely clear all materials.

Another situation is tracking another person’s phone, knowing his password and login. Please note that in most cases this is an illegal procedure! But with this method you can identify the attacker, find a missing loved one, and even save a child.

Looking for Android by phone number

Sometimes you may need to track a specific number. This is a more specialized operation for which some applications or services of mobile operators are suitable.

Explicitly: using the Where's my droid program

QR Code

Where's My Droid

Developer: Alienman Technologies LLC

Price: Free

An excellent utility, the best of its kind. Available freely in the Google Store. The basic, initial version is completely free, but its functionality is a little condensed and limited:

Search for a smartphone using enabled GPS;
Notification if the user has changed their phone number;
Search for phone by vibration;
Alert if the monitored user has low battery.

The advanced modification contains many more useful options, but you will have to pay for it. First, we strongly recommend trying the demo version! Now let’s take a look at the features of the premium program:

Internal camera module that allows you to take a photo remotely. This way you can, for example, recognize the face of a robber or swindler.
Possibility of an “eternal” program. A rather specific name, meaning that a person will not be able to remove the utility from his smartphone and stop tracking him.
Clearing all materials from the device, starting from internal memory and ending with external storage.

Secretly: operator service

This is a completely official option, which is a package with a service that must be activated for an additional fee. For example, Vodafone has a great “Looked after child” option. It works online using SMS. You only need to send the subscriber's name to the specified number.

Almost every operator has a similar function. So contact a consultant or visit the website of your mobile network - and the necessary user will always be in sight.

Conditions for successfully searching for an Android device

To remotely track a lost device, you need a device from which the search will be carried out. A smartphone, computer, tablet, laptop are suitable for these purposes.

You can check the location of the gadget under the following conditions:

free Android device with access;
Internet connection;
authorization on two devices must be in the same Google account;
the lost smartphone must be turned on, with the Internet connected;
Geolocation detection must be enabled on the gadget.

If the conditions are met, it will be possible to find the exact location. But often after the theft the device turns off, this greatly complicates the search.