How to track your AirTags—and protect yourself when they're not yours

Apple AirTags: Tracking Your Belongings and Protecting Yourself from Stalking

Since their 2021 launch, Apple AirTags have become popular for tracking personal items like bags, wallets, and luggage. Their location is easily viewable on a map via Apple devices, and proximity alerts provide extra peace of mind. However, concerns about unauthorized tracking have led Apple to develop robust anti-stalking technology. Fortunately, this protection extends to Android users as well.

Tracking Your Own AirTags

Currently, AirTag setup requires an iPhone or iPad. After activating the device, your Apple device will automatically detect it. Simply tap the connection prompt to configure the AirTag.

[Related: How to track down your lost devices]

The Find My app (iOS, iPadOS, macOS) allows you to control your AirTag. Features include sound activation, location tracking (if nearby), and customizable notifications. Lost Mode leverages the Find My network to locate a missing AirTag anonymously and securely. If someone finds your AirTag, both you and the finder receive notifications.

Detecting Unauthorized AirTag Tracking

To combat unauthorized tracking, Apple has implemented several anti-stalking measures. By default, iPhones and iPads will alert you if an unknown AirTag is traveling with you. To ensure this functionality, verify the following settings:

• Location Services: Enabled in Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. "Find My iPhone" and "Significant Locations" should also be enabled under System Services.
• Airplane Mode and Bluetooth: Disabled and enabled, respectively.
• Tracking Notifications: Enabled in the Find My app > Me tab.

An alert will appear if an unknown AirTag is detected, along with a map showing its movement. You can activate the AirTag's sound or use UWB (iPhone 11 and later) for precise location finding.

[Related: How to find a lost phone]

Android users can utilize a similar feature within Settings > Safety & emergency > Unknown tracker alerts. Enable automatic scanning or perform manual scans to detect any unknown AirTags. Sound activation and location tracking are also available.

Additionally, a separated AirTag will periodically emit a sound. Tap an NFC-enabled device to the AirTag to view its information, including owner contact details (if provided), and options to put it in Lost Mode or disable it by removing the battery.

Remember, reporting a found AirTag or disabling it is at your discretion. Prioritize your safety and act accordingly based on the circumstances.

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