Online tracing through services like Detectico relies on a consent-based mechanism to ensure privacy and legality. When you initiate a trace, the system sends an SMS containing a localized link to the target number. The recipient must click this link for their GPS coordinates to be transmitted back to you. This process cannot be done completely silently, as modern mobile operating systems require user permission to access location data. For a deeper look into how this works, check here for expert advice. While there is a risk the person might ignore the text, you can customize the message to increase the likelihood of them clicking. This transparent approach ensures the service remains a legitimate tool for finding family or lost devices without violating privacy laws.