3 very useful apps that will help you locate your Android smartphone

We hope you never find yourself in the situation of having to use one of these apps... But if your smartphone were to be lost or stolen , here are three very useful apps that will help you find it (and even lock it to prevent fraudulent use).

• Prey : This is one of the most comprehensive anti-theft apps, allowing you to track and locate your phone via a tablet or computer in case of loss or theft . Prey is free and can protect up to three devices with a single account. It allows you to locate a mobile device using GPS geolocation and Wi-Fi network triangulation. It can also send photos taken with the device's front or rear cameras to track where your phone may be or who has it; it locks your device from any unwanted intruders or remotely triggers a very loud alarm , even if your phone is on silent mode.

• Where's My Droid : This app It's very useful for locating your Android smartphone by obtaining GPS coordinates via Google Maps . This data reveals the exact location of the device. The app also lets you control the ringer volume and make the phone ring to locate it . It also provides password protection so no one can access your apps and sends notifications if your SIM card or number changes .

• Lookout Mobile Security : This app is especially interesting because it also works as an antivirus and can track your phone if it's lost . In its free version, Lookout locates your device on a map and sounds an alarm even if it's in silent mode. It also automatically saves your phone's location when the battery is running low and backs up your Google contacts so you can download them to your computer.

Remember: If you or a friend ever loses your smartphone, these three simple free apps can be a great help.