What is an Apple AirTag?

Apple AirTags are small keyring-sized discs that are a part of the "Find My" network and allows users to easily track things like their keys, wallet, purse, luggage, and more. AirTags send out a Bluetooth signal that the user's iPhone detects on the Find My network. The AirTag is relatively inexpensive and their batteries last up to a year.

How are AirTags being used by criminals?

AirTags are being used by opportunistic thieves due to their low cost and the discretion they offer to criminals in tracking and stealing vehicles. AirTags are magnetic on one side and can be attached to various metal spots on the vehicle. The most common placement spots are a vehicle's trailer hitch, gas tank, or on the front grill.

Thieves can then track the AirTag that was inconspicuously placed on the vehicle with their connected iPhone. The thieves will then track the vehicle to a suitable location for them to steal the vehicle. Often, this will occur at the vehicle owner's home while they are sleeping. A paired iPhone can track the Apple AirTag from any location and do not have to be nearby.

How can you protect yourself?

If you have an iPhone:

• Your iPhone will send you a notification/alert on your home screen if an AirTag has been found moving with you for an extended period of time.
• You can disable the AirTag by following the steps on Apple's support page.

If you don't have an iPhone:

• You will not receive a notification on your phone that an AirTag has been found moving with you.
• Instead, Apple has released an Android app called Tracker Detect that will notify you of an AirTag in your proximity for more than 20 minutes.

It is recommended that you conduct both an interior and exterior check of your vehicle if you suspect a tracking device has been placed unknowingly to you.

If you locate an AirTag on your vehicle, the best thing to do is call the police immediately so they can try to get fingerprint information to find out who installed it there.

You can also physically disable the device by removing the battery.

Another option for protecting yourself is to get your own AirTag for your own vehicle. That way, if your vehicle is stolen, you will be able to track it's location and report it to the police.



Remember to keep aware of your surroundings and be mindful of potential GPS tracking devices being placed on or in your vehicle for the purpose of theft.