GSM tracking, is it possible without switching on a phone?

GSM tracking on a phone without power is near to impossible. Any SIM or mobile phone which is not registered onto the network cannot be tracked no matter what. However as soon as it is put into a phone and switched on, the mobile’s IMEI number and the SIM’s serial number would be received by signal towers nearby to get the SIM registered onto the network for receiving and making calls and other GSM mobile based communications.

For tracking a phone through GSM or GPS technology, it is necessary that the phone is powered on. In case of no power, GSM technology can track the phone to the area of its last reception only. Because SIMs cannot be magnetized they cannot be detected or tracked if they are without a cell phone. Also a cell phone needs to be on the network, powered by a SIM or otherwise to get its location tracked. In-built GPS system of the phone, can track the phone easily once its switched on, no matter if it has a SIM card installed in it or not.

When inserted into a mobile phone, the SIM is initially read by the mobile which prompts it for the IMSI number.

Once the mobile gets the approved IMSI number, it allows the SIM to register onto the network and thus get into the communication circle. For GSM tracking, a phone thus needs to be powered on and in an area which can network reception. Otherwise only GPS tracking is possible.