What is the code to see if someone is tracking your phone?

Can You Tell If Someone Is Tracking Your Phone?

It’s a question that crosses many minds: is someone monitoring my phone? While the idea of being tracked can feel unsettling, it’s important to understand what you can—and can’t—check on your own.

One common myth is that a simple code can reveal full-scale surveillance. In reality, there’s no magic USSD code that will definitively confirm if your device is being spied on. However, dialing *#21# on most smartphones does provide some insight. This code checks whether unconditional call forwarding is active—meaning incoming calls might be redirected to another number without your knowledge.

If the screen shows “forwarded to” followed by a number, that could raise a red flag. While call forwarding isn’t always malicious (it’s sometimes used in business settings), unexpected forwarding could suggest interference, especially if you didn’t set it up.

Still, modern tracking methods rarely rely on call forwarding. Spyware, malicious apps, or unauthorized access through cloud accounts (like iCloud or Google) are more common—and invisible to simple codes. These can only be detected through careful inspection of installed apps, battery usage, data consumption, or by using trusted security software.

For true peace of mind, keep your phone’s operating system updated, avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources, and regularly review app permissions. If you suspect serious spying, a factory reset (after backing up safely) or professional security check may be necessary.

So while *#21# won’t show you every form of tracking, it’s a small window into one potential sign of interference. But remember: no code replaces good digital hygiene and awareness.