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AirTags were created by Apple to help you keep track of things. You can attach an AirTag to your keys that you’re always misplacing or clip them onto your shoes or even your dog (though we’d just recommend getting them chipped). While this piece of technology has become a trendy must-have for many people, they have a dark side to it. There are some privacy concerns and safety issues with Apple’s AirTags that you may not have considered in the past. So, before you toss one in your suitcase or attach it to your keys, here are several things you should know.
1. They Can Be Used for Stalking
Initially, AirTags were marketed as a convenient way to locate lost items, but they’ve become a tool for unwanted tracking. Whether it’s a bitter ex-girlfriend or boyfriend, your spouse, or just a creep from the Walmart parking lot, AirTags can give people information about your whereabouts. NPR reported that AirTags have even been used to mark cars that criminals plan to steal.
That said, Apple has been making changes to the AirTag system. iPhone users should be able to see all AirTags in the area. So, if you’re driving down the road and you realize an unexpected AirTag is in the vicinity, your car could have been “tagged.” These alerts don’t always work like they are meant to, though. Additionally, Android users might not receive a warning at all, increasing their risk of being tracked through this method.
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2. They Lack Robust Anti-Theft Protection
When it comes to anti-theft protections, AirTags basically have… none. Unlike GPS trackers, AirTags rely on nearby Apple devices to relay their location. This makes them ineffective in remote places or anywhere there aren’t many Apple users. If you’re dealing with a professional thief, they already know about the AirTag’s vulnerabilities. So, they are able to disable them quickly. Even if it remains active, it won’t ever give you the item’s exact location. Ultimately, it doesn’t offer the security you might expect.
3. They Compromise Your Privacy
As mentioned above, AirTags can be used to stalk people or even mark your property for theft. They compromise your privacy in other ways as well. These devices continuously broadcast a Bluetooth signal, which can be hacked. This can reveal your location to random people. Although the “Find My” network is encrypted, it still raises concerns about potential data leaks or misuse. If privacy is a priority for you, AirTags might not be the best tracking solution.
4. They Can Be Hacked
Yes, your AirTag can be hacked and it’s fairly easy. Duke University published an article about hacking AirTags. While it would take a skilled hacker to pull off, it would allow the person to know “not just where a potential victim is going but when they go there and how often.” This is extremely concerning from a safety standpoint. Hackers can also change the device’s firmware to send false location data or disable safety alerts from Apple. In some cases, modified AirTags have been used to redirect victims to phishing websites. These hacks make it difficult for the average user to trust the accuracy of their AirTag’s location data. Staying vigilant and updating your device’s software is crucial, but even that may not fully protect you from these risks.
5. They Drain Smartphone Batteries
It may seem like a small problem when you consider the other issues listed so far, but AirTags can (and will) drain your smartphone battery. It has to connect via Bluetooth, which can significantly drain your phone’s battery over time. Frequent location updates and alerts require constant communication between the AirTag and your phone. Not to mention, if you have multiple AirTags, the strain on your battery can be even more noticeable. If you’re relying on your phone for navigation, communication, or work, this can be really frustrating.
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6. They Can Go Undetected for Days
Even though Apple is making an effort to notify users of unknown AirTags in the vicinity, they can still go undetected for days. It is true that the device emits a sound after being separated from its owner for a period, but this alert isn’t always loud enough to be heard in noisy environments. Some people might also dismiss notifications about unknown tags in the area, assuming it’s a glitch. This delay in detection gives stalkers or thieves ample time to track their targets. If you’re traveling or moving frequently, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and regularly check for hidden AirTags.
7. They May Violate Local Laws
You might not have any ill intent with your AirTag, but your use of the device could infringe on local privacy or stalking laws. Apple released a statement saying that these instances are far and few between, but “each instance is too many.” In some states, using an AirTag to track someone has been upgraded from a misdemeanor stalking offense to a felony. Utilizing the device to control others or keep tabs on them can also be qualified as domestic violence. If caught using an AirTag for nefarious purposes, you could face fines, legal action, or even jail time. It’s important to understand your local laws and use AirTags responsibly to avoid legal trouble.
Think Twice Before Using AirTags
In the end, I probably wouldn’t use an AirTag for anything. Right now, the technology is being used in more bad ways than I’d be comfortable with. There are privacy, safety, and legal concerns. I’ll bypass the alleged benefits, given the potential dangers. If you are considering an AirTag, you should stay informed about the issues surrounding these devices. Take the necessary precautions, and explore alternative tracking solutions that prioritize your privacy and safety.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.
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