If a smartphone is lost or stolen, there are often simple ways of finding it or, in the worst case, deleting the data. Companies often equip their smartphones with different tracking devices.
In case you have lost your smartphone, you must first answer the question: What operating system does your phone have? Depending on your answer to this question, the method will be slightly different.
For an Android phone
You can easily find a smartphone with Android operating system, as long as you have connected your Google account to it.
You must have previously authorized the location of your device. It’s usually on by default, but better make sure if you’re not sure. To do this, go to the settings of your device. In this menu you will find the section related to your Google account.
In these Google settings you will find the “Find my device” section. Open it and check if location is enabled.
If you lost your device while tracking was on, it couldn’t be easier. Just go to Find My Device (google.com) and you have direct access to a map showing the location of your device.
If you have multiple devices connected to your Google account, remember to double check that it’s actually your lost phone. Otherwise, you can just change it at the top left of the page
On the same website you have three options: call your device, backup it, temporarily block all your data, or even wipe your data in case your device was indeed stolen and you won. I can’t get it back
Note that even if localization is disabled, you still have the ability to erase your data or lock the device.
For an iOS phone
As with an Android, the localization must be activated. To be sure, go to settings. Tap your own name, then tap Find My iPhone.
If location is enabled, the procedure remains roughly the same, but this time go to the iCloud.com/find website. You must identify yourself and have access to a map that allows you to locate your smartphone. Remember to select the device you are looking for.
Just like with an Android device, you can also ring your smartphone with iOS, lock it or erase its contents.
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