When Apple introduced AirTags in 2021, they received praise as an innovative way to track everyday items. However, cybersecurity experts quickly voiced concerns about their potential for misuse, particularly in stalking scenarios. Reports of AirTags being secretly placed in personal belongings surfaced, alarming many. Various police departments began warning the public about the dangers posed by these devices.
In response to these concerns, Apple implemented firmware updates to mitigate the risks of misuse. The widespread nature of AirTags made them appealing not only for everyday individuals but also for criminal activities, as seen in cases involving drug trafficking and theft.
If you suspect that an AirTag is tracking you, there are several ways to check for its presence:
Identifying Possible AirTag Tracking
- iPhone Alerts: If you have an iPhone with iOS 14.5 or later, you will receive an alert if an unknown AirTag remains near you for an extended period. To ensure you receive these notifications, turn on Bluetooth and check your settings under Privacy & Security.
- Using AirTag Features: For owners of modern iPhones, tapping the alert can allow you to play a sound on the AirTag, helping you locate it. Additionally, newer iPhones can utilize precision finding to pinpoint the tracker more accurately.
For Android users, the Tracker Detect app was launched, allowing them to manually scan for unwanted trackers. Since then, efforts have been made to enhance cooperation between Google and Apple to make tracking alerts more universal across devices.
Many have turned to Bluetooth scanning apps to detect AirTags, but experts like Eva Galperin from the Electronic Frontier Foundation warn that these methods may not always be effective. Without a smartphone, individuals must rely on visual clues to spot AirTags, which are slightly larger than a quarter.
What to Do If You Find an AirTag
If you locate an AirTag, the safest way to disable it is to remove its battery. This process involves twisting the device to access the battery compartment. Apple advises contacting local law enforcement if you feel threatened or unsafe due to potential tracking.
Instances of unwanted tracking often affect a wide range of individuals, although women are frequently reported as victims. However, experts emphasize that tech-enabled abuse can victimize anyone, regardless of gender.
For those in need of support, resources are available through organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which provide assistance and guidance.
In conclusion, while technologies like AirTags offer practical tracking solutions, their potential for misuse raises significant safety concerns. Understanding how to identify and respond to possible tracking can help protect personal security.
