How to detect and disable illegal Bluetooth trackers on Android phones

In the latest update, Google has announced two new features - disable tracking (up to 24 hours) and also detect the tracker on the Find Nearby feature and disable it.

Google has begun rolling out a security feature to Android phones that allows users to detect the Bluetooth trackers that are used to illegally to stalk people.

In the latest update, the company has announced two new features- disable tracking (up to 24 hours ) and also detect the tracker on the Find Nearby feature and disable it.

It should be noted that Google introduced an Unknow tracker alert in 2023, but was limited to just Apple AirTag. Now, the new feature can detect more Bluetooth tracker brands to curb illegal stalking and also accurately pinpoint the location of the object.

Here's how to detect and disable illegal Bluetooth trackers on Android phones:

Android devices (with Android 6.0 or later versions) automatically detect Bluetooth tracker following the owner and immediately flash the message on the screen. Then, do the following to find and disable it:

Step 1: On your device, tap the tracker notification to open a map.

Step 2: Find where the tracker has been detected travelling with you.

Step 3: Tap Play sound, which causes the tracker to make a sound.

Don't worry, you won’t notify the owner if you play the sound.

Step 4: Do as per the on-screen instructions. To locate the tracker, follow the sound.

Unknown Bluetooth tracker detection feature on Android phone.

Once you find the tracker, do the following steps:

Step 1: After you find the tracker you may:

a) Go to a safe public location and contact law enforcement or a trusted contact if you feel that your safety is at risk.

b) Get and save the tracker’s info.

Step 2: Disable the tracker by breaking it into pieces.

Note: If plan to file a complaint, don't physically damage it. Just hand over the device to the police. The latter will be able to find credible evidence to nail the culprit and bring him to justice.

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