AirTags might be useful, but are they a threat to privacy?
In this issue of In Perspective, Jackie Barlow, Data Protection Senior Consultant at Xcina Consulting, discusses how new technology may have implications for UK businesses and individuals.
What happened
Apple’s AirTags were introduced in April 2021 as an easy way to be able to track many things including your keys, your wallet or lost luggage, but recently there have been reports of these tiny devices being used by thieves and stalkers to track people.
One example included AirTags being placed in luxury vehicles so that they could later be stolen. Many individuals have found the devices hidden in belongings.
There are notable differences between the technology behind AirTags and older tracking devices. They do not have a built-in GPS system but instead they are said to ‘piggyback’ off the location data of Apple devices that are nearby, by emitting a continuous Bluetooth signal. This is then viewable by the tag’s owner.
For iPhone users at least, there is some good news. They will receive a notification if an AirTag is separated from them. However, this is provided their phone is running on iOS 14.5 or a later system and they have the correct settings on.
Android users are not able to get these notifications but Apple has released an application called Tracker Detect that will scan for an unknown AirTag nearby. Tracker Detect only works when the app is open.
If someone is alerted to the presence of an unknown AirTag, they can trigger an audible chime so they can locate the device. The battery can be removed to deactivate the AirTag.
Why it matters
The use of AirTags has shown that despite technology becoming more sophisticated and advanced, it also becomes much easier to misuse and abuse.
AirTags were designed to help people track their personal belongings, but they have been misused for stalking and other crimes, posing a danger to personal privacy and safety.
It has been seen that the current technology found in smartphones cannot provide a strong enough defence for this type of tracking. Going forward, Apple will work together with law enforcement and they intend to roll out additional software updates to help iPhone users become more aware of and locate any unknown AirTags in their possession.
Takeaways
Apple already produced an ‘AirTag Safety Guide’ early this year, due to concerns raised around the device. The BBC reported on this at; Apple unveils AirTag safety guide amid stalker fears – BBC News</p>
The Apple Safety User Guide can be found at Personal Safety User Guide – Apple Support (UK)
If you are being maliciously tracked, current advice is to contact the police. Each AirTag has a unique identifier which can be traced to find the perpetrators.