Presently, smartphones are powerful computers that allow us to perform tasks that only a generation ago would have been considered science fiction. The devices also often contain a tremendous amount of confidential information, including the contents of our text and email communications, as well as access to various accounts via pre-logged-in apps.
It is crucial, therefore, to keep the devices safe from hackers, and to take immediate corrective action if your phone is breached. But how can you tell if your smartphone has been compromised to track you?
With the help of just a few shortcodes, you can find out more about the settings of your phone and information are protected or whether you’re being tracked.
Check out the codes, the most useful and important codes for smartphones.
Code #1*#21#
This simple code lets you find out whether your calls, messages and other data are being diverted.
The status of the different types of diversions that are taking place along with the number the information is being transferred to will be displayed on your phone’s screen.
*#21#
With this code, you can find out whether your calls, messages and other data are being diverted.
*#62#
Dial this code if you want to find out where calls, messages, and data are being redirected to if it seems that no one can get through to you.
##002#
Dial this code if you want to switch off all forms of diversion away from your phone. It’s a good idea to use this before you have to use roaming.
Code #2*#62#
This code lets you find out where calls, messages, and data are being redirected to if it seems that no one can get through to you.
The chances are in this case that your voice calls are being redirected to one of your cell phone operator’s numbers.
Code #3##002#
This is a universal code for switching off all forms of redirection away from your phone. It’s a good idea to use this before you have to use roaming. In this case, money won’t be taken from your account for calls that are redirected by default to your voice mail.
Code #4*#06#
With the help of this code, you can find out your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identifier). If you know this number, you can find your phone if someone steals it. When it is switched on the location is automatically conveyed to the network operator. Even if you insert a new SIM card. If someone knows your IMEI number, they can find out the model and technical characteristics of your phone.
Special Code
Special codes exist that allow someone to track your location and also to determine whether someone is following you. For this, you need the utility net monitor. Type in one of the following codes:
for iPhone: *3001#12345#*
for Android: *#*#4636#*#* or *#*#197328640#*#*
Perform the steps:
Step 1. Go to the section called UMTS Cell Environment, then UMTS RR info, and write down all the numbers under Cell ID. These numbers are the basic stations located nearby. Your phone will connect by default to the one that emits the best signal.
Step 2. Go back to the main menu, and click on the MM info tab, then on Serving PLMN. Write down the numbers under the Local Area Code (LAC).
Step 3. With the help of these two numbers and an ordinary website (the fourth tab to the left), you can determine the location on the map of the basic station that your phone is connected to.
So what should you do if you suspect your device was hacked?
If you suspect that your phone is infected, run mobile anti-malware software (preferably run more than one vendor’s offering) and remove any apps that you don’t recognize. If possible, wipe the device, restore factory settings, and reinstall apps from trusted app stores. Use internet security software on your device going forward. If you are concerned that the device has been rooted by malware, show it to a professional.
