The introduction of Apple’s AirTag has revolutionized the way people keep track of their personal belongings. By providing precise location tracking via Apple’s Find My network, AirTags help users locate lost bags, keys, and valuables with ease. However, while they offer significant convenience, AirTags have, unfortunately, also raised privacy and security concerns. A growing number of reports highlight how these devices have been misused for covert tracking of individuals. Understanding how to detect an AirTag tracking you — and how to stop it — is essential in today’s increasingly connected world.
How AirTags Work
AirTags are small, button-sized devices designed by Apple to be attached to items like keychains, bags, or bicycles. They work by emitting a low-energy Bluetooth signal that can be picked up by any nearby device in Apple’s extensive Find My network — consisting of millions of iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If your AirTag-equipped item is lost, you’ll be able to see its location on a map via the Find My app.
While this technology is incredibly useful for locating personal items, the same features can be weaponized when placed — intentionally and secretly — in someone’s personal belongings, vehicle, or pockets. Apple has included several safety measures to address this, but awareness and vigilance are key.
How to Know if an AirTag Is Tracking You
Apple has implemented various features to alert users when an AirTag that doesn’t belong to them has been moving with them. Here are the primary ways you may be notified:
1. You Receive an “AirTag Found Moving With You” Alert on iPhone
If you have an iPhone running iOS 14.5 or later and an unknown AirTag is traveling with you, your phone may notify you with a message stating: “AirTag Found Moving With You.” This alert indicates that the AirTag has been separated from its owner and is now moving with you — a potential sign of unauthorized tracking.
2. Physical AirTag Emitting a Noise
AirTags that have been separated from their owner for a certain period of time — typically between 8 to 24 hours — will automatically emit a chirping noise to help nearby individuals locate them. If you hear consistent chirping but can’t immediately see the source, you should investigate hidden spots in your belongings, car, or property.
3. Android Users May Need the Tracker Detect App
For Android users, Apple provides a free app called Tracker Detect, which allows individuals to manually scan for nearby unknown AirTags. Unlike iPhones, Android devices won’t automatically receive tracking alerts, so regular scanning may be necessary if you suspect someone is tracking you.
Signs to Look Out For:
- Unexpected iPhone notifications regarding AirTags
- Strange noises that repeat at intervals and seem to move with you
- Tracker found in your car or personal effects
How to Find a Suspicious AirTag
If you suspect you are being tracked but haven’t received a notification and haven’t heard the AirTag’s beeping, you can take the following steps to locate it:
- Thoroughly search your belongings: AirTags are small and easy to hide. Inspect clothing, bags, purses, and vehicle compartments — especially those not often used.
- Use an iPhone or Android device: Use the Find My app on an iPhone or download Tracker Detect if you’re an Android user. These can help guide you to the location of the AirTag.
- Listen for sounds: AirTags emit a distinct beeping sound every few seconds after being away from their owner for a certain time. Quiet environments can help you hear the signal more clearly.
If an AirTag is found and determined to be unauthorized, stopping it is straightforward, but caution is advised.
How to Disable or Stop an AirTag from Tracking You
Once you find the AirTag, you should disable it immediately to stop it from updating its location. Here’s how:
1. Remove the Battery
The simplest way to disable an AirTag is by removing its battery:
- Press down on the stainless steel back — the side with the Apple logo
- Rotate counterclockwise until the cover pops off
- Remove the CR2032 battery
This renders the device inoperable and stops any tracking activities.
2. Use Apple’s Find My App
If you’re using an iPhone, you might also see an option through the notification that says “Learn About This AirTag”. Tapping it will show information such as its serial number and potentially the last four digits of the owner’s phone number.
The app may offer you choices like disabling the AirTag or guiding you to where it has been. These features are designed to give you more control and help you decide whether law enforcement should be involved.
3. Report to Authorities
If you find an AirTag that you believe was placed with malicious intent, report it to local police. Be sure to preserve the AirTag in a zip-lock bag and, if possible, note any identifying information the Find My app provides. Misuse of tracking technology is a serious offense in many jurisdictions.
Preventative Measures to Ensure Your Safety
Staying vigilant is the first step toward protecting your privacy. Below are some additional steps you can take:
- Regularly check your belongings: Make it a habit to thoroughly inspect frequently-used items like your purse, backpack, or car interior.
- Update your phone’s software: Apple regularly updates iOS to improve alerts and add security features.
- Encourage friends and family to monitor as well: Especially for children, elderly individuals, or those in abusive situations where tracking could be dangerous.
- Install trusted security apps: Some apps can detect Bluetooth signals which may help find unknown trackers beyond AirTags.
What Apple Is Doing to Improve Safety
In response to rising privacy concerns, Apple has implemented several software updates to make AirTags safer from misuse. These include faster notifications, more precise tracking information, and tools to disable unwanted AirTags. Apple has also committed to collaborating with law enforcement agencies by providing traceable logs and ownership data related to AirTags involved in illegal tracking.
Moreover, Apple has announced further enhancements such as improved alert precision on compatible phones and more aggressive timing for notifications. Still, the success of such features relies on users keeping their devices updated and being proactive about their personal security.
Conclusion
The growing prevalence of tracking devices like the AirTag comes with both benefits and risks. While the convenience of finding lost belongings cannot be overstated, the potential for misuse cannot be ignored. Recognizing the signs of unauthorized tracking and acting quickly can make the difference between a minor concern and a serious invasion of privacy.
Always trust your instincts. If something feels off, investigate further or seek help. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones in a world that is becoming increasingly connected — one dot at a time.
