Are You Being Stalked? Tech Tips to Protect Yourself
Have you ever felt like someone is watching you? On my national radio show, I frequently receive calls and messages from individuals who believe they are being stalked. Sometimes, it turns out to be unfounded anxieties, but other times, it’s tragically clear that something is indeed amiss. The proliferation of technology has, unfortunately, made it remarkably simple for individuals to monitor someone’s movements and activities, often without their knowledge or consent.
However, there is hope. I can equip you with the knowledge to identify potential stalking behaviors and empower you to adjust your device settings to safeguard your privacy. Let’s dive into the practical steps you can take right now to protect yourself.
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Is Your Phone Eavesdropping on You? It’s More Complicated Than You Think.
One of the most common anxieties revolves around the suspicion that your phone is constantly listening to your conversations. While it might feel that way sometimes, the reality is more nuanced. Apps request microphone access, but it’s crucial to understand how and when they utilize it.
Share My Location: Knowing Who’s Watching
First and foremost, check your "Share My Location" settings. On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > Privacy > Location Services > Share My Location. Here, you’ll see a list of individuals with whom you are currently sharing your location.
Pro Tip: If you decide to remove access for someone, they will be notified. Before removing access, it’s wise to take a screenshot of this list as documentation, particularly if you suspect stalking and might need to present evidence to law enforcement or other authorities. To take a screenshot on most iPhones, simultaneously press and hold the right-side power button and the top volume button until you see a flash.
Apple ID Security: A Gateway to Your Digital Life
If someone has managed to sign into your Apple ID on their own device, they could potentially track you across all Apple services that use your account. This includes location data, iCloud storage, messages, and more. Therefore, securing your Apple ID is paramount.
Follow this link to access a quick security fix that every iPhone owner should know. This likely involves enabling two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code from a trusted device whenever someone attempts to log in from a new device.
Pro Tip: Apple’s "Safety Check" feature offers a swift and comprehensive way to review and manage your privacy settings. It shows you exactly what information you’re sharing and allows you to quickly cut off access from people or apps you no longer trust. You can usually find this feature within the Settings app under Privacy or Security.
Google Account Security: A Treasure Trove of Information
Similar to your Apple ID, your Google account holds a wealth of personal information, including your Maps history, location data, search queries, and more. If someone gains access to your Google account, they could potentially track your movements and activities with ease.
Regularly review your Google account activity and look for any unfamiliar devices or logins. If you spot something suspicious, immediately sign out of your account on all devices and change your password to a strong, unique one that you haven’t used elsewhere.
5-Minute Phone and Computer Cleanup: A Digital Detox
Taking a few minutes to clean up your phone and computer can significantly improve your overall security and privacy. Start by reviewing the apps installed on your devices and deleting any that you no longer use or recognize. Check your browser extensions and remove any suspicious or unnecessary ones. Clear your browsing history and cache to remove traces of your online activity.
Google Maps: Are You Sharing Your Location Unwittingly?
It’s worth checking your Google Maps settings to ensure that you’re not inadvertently sharing your location with anyone. Open Google Maps, navigate to the menu, and look for "Location sharing." Review the list of people with whom you are sharing your location and remove access for anyone you don’t want tracking you.
AirTags and GPS Stalking: A Growing Threat
Alarmingly, studies suggest that almost 10% of Americans have experienced stalking via GPS tracking devices, such as Apple AirTags or similar gadgets. Even if it hasn’t happened to you, it’s likely that someone you know has been affected.
One of the concerning aspects of AirTags is that they only start beeping after being separated from their owner for 24 hours. This provides a stalker with a significant window of opportunity to track your movements, especially if they live nearby. If a carjacker affixes an AirTag to your vehicle, they could learn your daily routine and follow you home before you even realize what’s happening.
Rumors suggest that Apple’s upcoming AirTags 2 will incorporate enhanced anti-stalking technology. While current AirTags can be modified by tech-savvy stalkers to disable the built-in speaker, the new generation should make it more difficult to tamper with the device. In the meantime, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself.
Proactive Steps to Stay Safe:
- iPhone Safety Settings: Make sure the following settings are enabled on your iPhone. (Specific settings would be listed here – but this information was missing)
- Android Safety Settings: The process is similar on Android devices running Android 6.0 or newer. If your phone is older than that, it’s highly recommended that you upgrade to a newer device with the latest security features. (Specific settings would be listed here – but this information was missing)
You need to make sure your location and Bluetooth settings are enabled, too. (Specific settings would be listed here – but this information was missing)
Additional Resources:
For more information and tips on protecting yourself from stalking and online harassment, consult with local law enforcement agencies, victim advocacy groups, and online safety resources.
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Award-winning host Kim Komando is your secret weapon for navigating tech.
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