How to know the real-time location of another person through WhatsApp with their phone number

The option to share real time location It is very useful in situations that require coordination or security. It facilitates meeting at events or meetings, allowing us follow the journey of others live. This function has reached practically all messaging applications and social networks.

WhatsApp allows you to do it in individual chats or groups, either in real time for 15 minutes, one hour or eight hours or at the current moment. This function is protected with end-to-end encryptionwhich is supposed to guarantee the safety of those who use it.

Real time location is also in Google Maps with a duration of one hour or until the option is deactivated. It can be sent to other Google accounts or shared through external platforms such as WhatsApp. By activating this function we can also know the percentage of remaining battery that the other person has left and we can even create routes from where we are to your location.

One of the latest platforms to join this trend has been instagram. Its function to share the location in real time allows it to be done for an hour via direct message, although for now It is only available in some countries.

How to share location in real time on WhatsApp

To carry out this function, it is necessary to follow the following steps:

  • Open the chat of the person or group where you want to share it.
  • Tap the button attach and select “Location.” An option will appear to share your “Real time location“.
  • Select the duration and press Send

Each chat participant will be able to see your location in real time on a map. If more than one person is sharing it, you will be able to see all the locations on the same map.

What is the difference between sending current and real-time location

The location in real time is a function that allows share your location while you move. Once you activate this option, the contacts with whom you decided to share it can follow your movements in real time, since they will be constantly updated. Its duration can be customized, with variables of 15 minutes, one hour or a maximum of eight hours. Once this period of time has passed, this function stops automatically.

However, the location current is an option that allows you to send your contacts a specific point on the map. This marks the exact location of the place and time it was sent. This type of location remains in the chat until you decide to delete it. It is often used to provide the address of an exact location in situations that require a meeting or marking a landmark.

What experts say about sharing your location over networks

Although it may seem like a harmless and safe function, cybersecurity experts They warn of the risks involved in revealing our location on social networks. Although many people prioritize comfort, they are not considering potential threats.

It is essential to remember that very sensitive information is being exposed. Everything that is published leaves a permanent trace and can be exploited by cybercriminals. Eusebio Nieva, technical director for Spain and Portugal at Check Point Software, warns: “There is a possibility that thieves know that you are not at home and take advantage of the opportunity to rob the user.”

All experts agree that access to the location should be limited only to applications that really need it to provide their services.