What is geolocation data?
Definition
Geolocation data is information that shows where a device, and so usually its owner, is or has been. It comes from GPS, Wi-Fi, mobile networks and IP addresses, and it can reveal where you live, work and spend your time.
- Category
- Data
- Also called
- location data, GPS data
- Last updated
NIST's glossary defines geolocation as determining the approximate physical location of an object. For a phone, that object is you, carried around all day.
The UK data protection regulator, the ICO, spells out why that matters: location data can identify where a person lives, works or otherwise spends their time, and because it can be used to track movements it can help identify individuals. That's why the UK GDPR lists location data among the identifiers that make information personal data.
Where it comes from
Phones produce it through GPS, Wi-Fi and mobile network signals. Apps that you let see your location collect it, and so can advertising tools built into those apps. Your IP address gives a rougher location. Photos can carry it too, when the camera adds a location tag.
Why it's sensitive
A trail of locations shows a pattern: a home address at night, a workplace by day, a clinic visit, a place of worship. The FTC treats precise location as sensitive. In 2022 it sued data broker Kochava, alleging its data can reveal people's visits to places such as reproductive health clinics, places of worship, homeless and domestic violence shelters, and addiction recovery facilities. That was an FTC allegation, and the case was ongoing at the time of the FTC's alert.
The FTC has said that apps should get clear consent before taking precise location, and that a flashlight app has no reason to collect it.
Geolocation data vs. a street address
An address is one fixed point. Geolocation data is a moving record. It tells someone where you are now and where you've been, which is why it matters for stalking and doxxing.
How to protect yourself
- 1
Set location to "while using" or off
In your phone's privacy settings, review which apps can see your location. Pick "only while using" or "never" for anything that doesn't need it, such as games and flashlight apps.
- 2
Turn off precise location where you can
Both major phone systems let you share approximate location instead of exact. Use that for weather and shopping apps.
- 3
Strip location from photos you share
Turn off location tagging in your camera settings before you post pictures from home.
- 4
Limit ad tracking
Use your phone's ad tracking and personalised ads settings to stop apps sharing your device ID with advertisers.
- 5
Remove your home address from public listings
Serus finds where your address and phone number are listed on data brokers and people-search sites and removes them.
See where your personal data is exposed
Serus finds it on data brokers and people-search sites and removes it.
Frequently asked
Is geolocation data personal data?
Often yes. The ICO says location data can identify where a person lives, works or spends time, and the UK GDPR lists location data as an identifier.
Who can see my geolocation data?
Apps you've allowed, your mobile carrier, and any advertising or data companies those apps share with. Review your app permissions to see which apps have access.
Can I turn off location tracking completely?
You can turn off location services on your phone. Your carrier and your IP address can still give a rough location.
What is the difference between GPS and geolocation?
GPS is one technology that produces geolocation data. Wi-Fi, cell towers and IP addresses are others.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.