Apple AirTags: An Effective Tracking Solution with Potential Concerns for Personal Safety

Apple AirTags can track a lost suitcase, but slow to alert for stalking, researchers say

By

October 26, 2023

In a recent study conducted by researchers at Northeastern University, it was found that Apple AirTags, while effective in tracking lost items, are slow to alert users when it comes to potential stalking or harassment. This raises serious concerns about the safety and privacy implications of the popular tracking device.

The Double-Edged Sword of AirTags

Apple AirTags were designed to help people find personal objects such as wallets or keys. The tiny tracker, when paired with Apple’s “Find My Devices” tool, allows users to locate their belongings with ease. However, the convenience and utility of AirTags also present a potential for misuse and abuse.

With their small size, AirTags can easily be slipped into bags or placed in unsuspecting locations, allowing individuals to be tracked without their knowledge or consent. This has led to instances where AirTags have been weaponized by stalkers and abusers to track and harass their victims. In fact, there is currently a class-action lawsuit against Apple with 37 plaintiffs claiming that AirTags have been used to facilitate stalking and abuse.

The Research Findings

The study conducted by Northeastern researchers focused on the effectiveness of Apple’s anti-stalking mechanisms within AirTags. It was discovered that while Apple has implemented some safety measures, the alerts sent to iPhone users about unknown AirTags can be delayed and even bypassed.

When an unregistered AirTag is detected by an iPhone, the user receives a notification after a few hours. However, the researchers found that these alerts could take anywhere from 30 minutes to nine hours to come in, with quicker alerts being more likely during nighttime or when the victim is within close proximity to the AirTag.

Furthermore, the study revealed that it is possible for users to reconfigure AirTags to bypass these safety methods, allowing for long-term tracking without triggering any alerts. The researchers reported this issue to Apple, but there was a delay in response from the company. Apple has since collaborated with Google to find ways to address the presence of unwanted tracking devices.

The Difficult Balance

Solving the problem of stalking and unwanted tracking presents a challenge. If smartphones start sending frequent notifications about potential trackers, users may find themselves bombarded with alerts, leading to annoyance and a lack of trust in the system.

While Apple strives to improve the safety of its devices, the issue at hand is complex. As Aanjhan Ranganathan, an assistant professor at Khoury College of Computer Sciences and the lead faculty adviser on the research study, mentioned, striking a balance between effective alerts and user comfort is a difficult task.

The Importance of Awareness and Accountability

Despite these shortcomings, it is crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential risks and vulnerabilities of tracking devices like AirTags. Increased awareness can help hold companies like Apple accountable for providing secure software and privacy protections.

As Nicole Gerzon, one of the cybersecurity students involved in the study, pointed out, Apple offers one of the highest levels of protection against stalking in the market. However, the issues discovered during the research indicate that there are underlying problems that need to be addressed not only by Apple but also by other developers creating tracking devices.

The involvement of Northeastern researchers in advising Apple and contributing to the development of industry-wide standards for safety alerts is a step in the right direction. It is hoped that with improved mechanisms and proactive measures, the risks associated with tracking devices can be mitigated.

Conclusion

The findings of the Northeastern study highlight the urgent need for better safeguards against stalking and unwanted tracking. While Apple AirTags have proven useful in locating lost items, their potential for abuse raises serious concerns about privacy and personal safety.

Addressing this issue requires a delicate balance between effective alert systems and user convenience. However, it is essential for companies like Apple to prioritize the protection of their users and work towards creating more secure and accountable software.

Increased awareness among consumers will also play a significant role in holding companies accountable and driving industry-wide standards for safer tracking devices. By staying informed and advocating for stronger privacy protections, individuals can contribute to a more secure digital environment.

As technology continues to advance, it is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of new innovations, ensuring that privacy and personal safety are not compromised. Only through collective effort and a commitment to ethical practices can we navigate the challenges posed by evolving technologies and create a more secure future.