Apple’s AirTags come in handy when you lose track of your keys, but recently, the GPS tracking device has begun to be used for more sinister purposes.
AirTags, which retail at $29 each, were originally intended to help Apple users find misplaced items like wallets and keys. Being such an affordable and accessible way to track something, stalkers have found that they’re perfect for tracking people without their knowledge.
Because these devices are only about the size of a quarter, AirTags are easily slipped into coat pockets or planted on a car.
“It’s a difficult device to be aware of,” said Justin Myers, an investigator with the Springfield Police Department. Myers said this type of stalking is something the SPD is on the lookout for.
Police departments nationwide report a rising number of these cases, but the good news is that the Corvallis Police Department hasn’t received any reports relating to AirTag stalking – yet.
In the event that an AirTag has been used to secretly track someone, Apple will send their users a message saying, “This item has been moving with you for a while; the owner can see your location.” Unfortunately, by the time the victims are alerted by Apple, the device has most likely already been tracking you for several hours.
While Apple users are automatically sent these alerts, Android users will have to download an app called Tracker Detect to be notified of a nearby AirTag that’s been separated from its owner.
When the AirTag has been found, it can be disabled by twisting counter-clockwise on the back and taking the battery out.
By Momoko Baker
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