Abstract: The invention relates to a locating device for remote location of an object, and a method for operating the locating device, particularly with a view to recovering objects which are stolen. The locating device comprises a mobile communication unit which is placed together with the object. Data concerning the communication unit's position are determined and registered by means of the existing infrastructure in a cellular network of which the communication unit forms a part when it is activated. The communication unit can be activated to a standby mode and deactivated to a sleep mode. The invention is characterized in that the communication unit is activated and deactivated depending on a time-variable signal generated in the locating device, thus providing a reduction in the communication unit's average power consumption. The signal is preferably derived from the locating device's acceleration.