Hack of the Day: Use Google Maps to share live location safely

'The Times of India' brings you 'Hack of the Day'—a new weekday series of quick, practical solutions to everyday hassles. Each hack is designed to save you time, money or stress, using tools and features within your reach—from government websites to everyday apps. In simple terms, it's simple fixes for smarter living.Staying connected while on the move is important, but sharing your location can sometimes raise safety concerns. Google Maps’ live location feature offers a secure way to let friends, family, or colleagues know where you are in real time — without oversharing or compromising your privacy.

What it solves

* Ensures loved ones can track your journey safely.* Helps coordinate meetups without endless phone calls.* Provides peace of mind during late-night travel or long commutes.* Reduces the risk of permanently exposing your location.

Steps to share live location safely

1. Open Google Maps * Launch the app on your smartphone.2. Tap Your Profile Icon * Select Location Sharing from the menu.3. Choose Who to Share With * Pick trusted contacts from your Google account or send a secure link.4. Set a Time Limit * Decide how long your location will be visible (e.g., 15 minutes, 1 hour, or until you turn it off).5. Control Access Anytime * Stop sharing instantly or extend the duration if needed.

Safety tips

* Share only with trusted people — avoid posting your live location on public platforms.* Use time limits to prevent your location from being visible indefinitely.* Check permissions — ensure your Google account and Maps app are updated for maximum security.