Q: My iPad's location software says I'm in Springfield, Ill., instead of Minnesota (a 400-mile mistake.) I've altered privacy and app settings, but nothing works. In case I've been hacked, I've removed the iPad's banking and financial apps and changed my passwords. What should I do?
Terrance Russell, Lilydale, Minn.
A: I suspect it's a technical glitch rather than a hacking incident. Apple's location methods are complex. If an iPad has GPS, Wi-Fi and a cellular connection, it determines its location by using a combination of GPS satellite signals, nearby Wi-Fi networks and cellular tower connections. If it has Wi-Fi only, its location is found via maps of Wi-Fi hot spots. Try these adjustments:
• Turn on some extra features. First go to Settings, then Privacy then Location Services. Click Location Services and turn it on, then scroll to the bottom of the same menu and click System Services. On that menu, turn on Location-Based Alerts and Location-Based Suggestions.
• Reset some features. Go to Settings, then General, then Reset. In the resulting list, choose only "Reset Network Settings." Then turn off the iPad and turn it back on.
• Switch some settings on and off. For example, turn off Location Services, wait 30 seconds, then turn it on again. You can do the same thing with apps. Go to Settings, then General, then scroll down to Reset. Click Reset and choose only Reset Location & Privacy. That will cause your apps to stop using Location Services until you give them permission again.
• Give the iPad a clear view of the sky so it can receive GPS satellite signals. Those signals may be blocked when you are inside a building or a car, so move closer to a window or stand outside. Remember that nearby tall buildings or other obstructions can also block a satellite signal.
• Improve GPS accuracy by correctly setting the iPad's time, date and time zone. Go to Settings, then General, then Date & Time. Turn on "set automatically."
