How many times have you been late for work because you cannot find your keys? Did that new purse you just bought get misplaced? Apple had apparently found the solution to misplaced and missing objects. The AirTag is a coin-sized device that can be bought at $29, but is it a saving grace or a disaster waiting to happen?
The AirTag was released in 2021 and developed to aid in finding lost personal or small items such as keys or wallets. With the help of Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth, and other nearby devices, the location can be tracked using Apple’s Find My app. The company shared that users found the device “instrumental in reuniting them with the things they value.” But, given the accessibility and ease of use, can AirTags potentially cause damage?
Concerns over the Airtag
People are generally wary of technology these days, and their fear isn’t unfounded. A few concerns have been brought up since the device became available in the market, particularly reports of stalking incidents. Last year, two women sued Apple for the AirTags used by their exes to allegedly stalk them. Shortly after ending the relationship and moving out, one woman found the device in her car tire. The other plaintiff found it on her child’s backpack. The suit from the women reads that “The benefits of Apple’s AirTag design do not outweigh the risks of the design.”
In another case, an Indiana woman suspecting her boyfriend of an affair used an AirTag to follow and confirm his location. She then ran over the man, killing him. Reports said the suspect even attempted to chase the woman accompanying the boyfriend.
Action to combat misuse
In a press release last February 2022, Apple made it clear to the public that the device should not be used for malicious intent. Furthermore, the company issued a guide regarding unwanted tracking on their support page along with advancement for AirTag and Find My app. First-time users will get a message informing them that using the device to track someone without their consent is a crime. An alert will also be prompted when your phone detects a nearby AirTag traveling with you. From there, you can open the Find My app once again to choose a corresponding action.
To ease the public, Apple stated that they have been “working closely with various safety groups and law enforcement agencies.” Despite the company’s efforts, some people are still in doubt about the AirTags. They may even rethink purchasing it if they decide that the device is more trouble than it’s worth.
At a glance, one can see how AirTags could be prone to unlawful use, as proven by reports. However, it has also been proven to be beneficial to some. However, in the wrong hands, it could be abused and cause harm to others. While new innovations with the help of technology have brought relief to us and made life a tad easier, it is always important to know when to draw the line. And as with everything handed to us, we must always practice caution and stay vigilant.
Photo credits: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by ifeelstock. The images used in the body of the article are owned by Apple and have been provided for press usage.
Sources: Mike Snider (USA Today) / Scott Gleeson (USA Today) / Sarah Rumpf-Whitten (Fox News)
