TL;DR: The clearest indicator of a problem isn't a symptom on the phone itself but simply not knowing which apps currently have location access — most people have never actually audited this list. On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services and review each app individually, switching unnecessary ones to "Never" or "While Using." On Android, go to Settings > Location > App location permissions and do the same.
The clearest indicator of a problem isn't a symptom on the phone itself but simply not knowing which apps currently have location access — most people have never actually audited this list.
What Usually Causes This
Apps typically request location access once during setup and retain that permission indefinitely unless it's manually revoked, even for apps that rarely need it for their core function.
What to Do About It
On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services and review each app individually, switching unnecessary ones to "Never" or "While Using." On Android, go to Settings > Location > App location permissions and do the same.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading How to Check What Apps Have Access to Your Microphone.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see How to Check Your Digital Footprint on a New Device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the real warning signs?
The clearest indicator of a problem isn't a symptom on the phone itself but simply not knowing which apps currently have location access — most people have never actually audited this list.
What usually causes this?
Apps typically request location access once during setup and retain that permission indefinitely unless it's manually revoked, even for apps that rarely need it for their core function.
What should I do about it?
On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services and review each app individually, switching unnecessary ones to "Never" or "While Using." On Android, go to Settings > Location > App location permissions and do the same.
Should I be worried if I only see one sign?
One sign alone (like a slower device) is usually not cause for alarm — most single symptoms have mundane explanations. Multiple signs together, especially unexpected data usage or unfamiliar apps, are worth investigating.