(Pain In The Pass) >> Police are warning people to be vigilant after receiving reports of Apple AirTags being used to follow individuals without consent.
Apple launched in 2021, a button-sized device called a AirTag Bluetooth tracker with ultra-wideband. It was launched as a step toward the future of augmented reality and a great way to find everyday objects, like your keys, lost dog, even a lost TV remote. Cybersecurity experts expressed concern that the tracking device would be exploited by stalkers.
However, reports show that the tags can also be used to track people unsuspectingly. If it is slipped into a purse, jacket/coat, suitcase, or a vehicle,raising questions about privacy and safety. Model Brooks Nader said an AirTag was secretly slipped into her coat during a night out in New York City. The stalker was a male and was arrested, charged with stalking after police found more AirTags in his car.
Now suspects have placed small tracking devices on vehicles so they can later locate and steal them. Suspects target vehicles when they are parked in public places like malls or parking lots. Thieves then track the targeted vehicles to the victim’s residence, where they are stolen from the driveway.
If you are concerned that a secret AirTag may be recording your location, these signs may help detect the tracker.
The type of smartphone you own affects how easily you can discover hidden AirTags. Owners of iPhones running iOS 14.5 or newer should receive a push alert whenever an unknown AirTag is nearby for an extended period of time and away from its owner. When you click on the iPhone alert, you may be given the option to play a sound on the AirTag to help locate the device. Check that you will receive these alerts by going into the Find My app, choose the Me tab in the bottom-right corner, and make sure Item Safety Alerts is green and toggled to the right under Notifications.
For Android phones Apple has launched the Tracker Detect app. Unlike the security features available for the iPhone, the Android app does not automatically look for unknown AirTags. You must initiate the scan every time you think you are being tracked.
The best way to disable an AirTag is to remove the battery. To do this, flip the AirTag so the metallic side with an Apple logo is facing you. Press down on the logo and turn counterclockwise. Now you will be able to remove the cover and pop out that battery.
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