To check if your phone is linked to another device, the most direct method is to view the list of devices signed into your main account, your Apple Account on iPhone or your Google Account on Android. This list shows every device currently signed in, making it the simplest way to spot unauthorized access.
How to check if my phone is linked to another device
When people ask how to check if my phone is linked to another device, they usually mean whether another phone, tablet, or computer is signed into the same account. Checking this device list is the most reliable way to confirm if someone else has access to your account and, by extension, your phone’s data.
Check linked devices on iPhone
- Open Settings.
- Tap [your name] at the top.
- Scroll down to see all devices signed into your Apple Account.
- Tap any device name to view its details.
- To unlink an unknown device, tap Remove from Account and confirm.
You can also check this list from a non-Apple device by signing in at account.apple.com and selecting Devices. Apple says if you don’t see your devices right away, you may need to choose View Details to authenticate before details appear. Removing a device from this list signs it out of your account remotely. Apple’s device list is also available on Windows PC or Android mobile device by signing in on the web at account.apple.com.
Note that iPhone and iPad also have a separate list under Settings > [your name] > Media & Purchases > Remove This Device. This shows devices associated with your account for purchases, not the same as the sign-in device list.
Check linked devices on Android
- Open Settings.
- Tap Google.
- Tap Devices & sharing.
- Tap Cross-device services.
- Turn on Use cross-device services to see or use the feature.
This feature is documented only for Android phones and tablets running Android 11 and up, and it is not available on Android Go devices. Google’s cross-device services require two or more Android phones or tablets running Android 11 and up, the same Google Account on both devices, and Bluetooth turned on on both devices. If you see an active device group here that you do not recognize, it may indicate unwanted linking.
Check linked devices on Samsung Galaxy
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connected devices.
On a Galaxy Book, this menu is found in the Samsung Settings app under Connected devices. Samsung says the Galaxy connected experience is exclusively between Galaxy devices, while some features such as Quick Share can also work with non-Galaxy devices in some regions. On Samsung, the Connected devices page shows active connected experiences you did not expect.
What to do if you find an unknown device
If you spot a device you do not recognize in any of these lists, take these steps immediately. First, remove the device from the account list, on iPhone, tap Remove from Account; on Android, you may need to sign out of the unknown device through your Google Account settings. Second, change your account password right away. Third, enable two-factor authentication if it is not already active. These actions prevent the unknown device from accessing your account again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between account linking and Bluetooth pairing?
Account linking means another device is signed into the same Apple or Google account, giving it access to your data and services. Bluetooth pairing is a direct wireless connection between two devices for short-range tasks like file transfers or audio streaming, and it does not grant account-level access.
Can someone link to my phone without my permission?
It is not common, but it is possible if someone gains access to your account credentials or installs malicious software on your phone. Regularly checking your account device list is the best way to catch this early.
What risks does a linked device pose?
A linked device can read your messages, view your photos, access your emails, and even make purchases using your saved payment methods. It can also be used for tracking a phone location (Phone Location Tracking Methods) if location sharing is enabled on the account.
Does removing a device from the list sign it out immediately?
Yes. On iPhone, tapping Remove from Account signs the device out remotely. On Android, removing a device from your Google Account settings also revokes its access.
Should I check the purchases list on iPhone too?
Only if you are concerned about which devices can make purchases using your Apple Account. The purchases list under Media & Purchases is separate from the sign-in device list and does not indicate active account access.
