Google Introduces New Measures to Combat AirTag Misuse by Stalkers

Google has recently introduced a new feature with the intention of improving user safety. This innovative addition aims to notify Android users about potential stalking risks associated with unfamiliar Bluetooth trackers, specifically AirTags. Numerous incidents have demonstrated the misuse of trackers like AirTags by stalkers to harass their targets.

Starting today, Android smartphones will automatically send alerts when an unknown Bluetooth tracking device is detected in the device’s owner’s immediate vicinity. If the tracker appears to be traveling with the user, a notification is triggered, allowing users to view the tracker’s last known location on a map. Additionally, the “Play Sound” option allows the user to make the tracker emit a sound, which helps in finding it, according to a MacRumors report.

Accurate information and a manual scan option

Google’s security feature goes further by providing essential information about the tracking device, such as its serial number or the last four digits of the registered owner’s phone number. In addition, users are instructed how to physically disable the tracking device. For those who prefer a manual scan, the Security & Emergency section of the Settings app on compatible Android devices provides this functionality.

Currently, unknown tracking alerts are designed specifically for Apple’s AirTags, but Google is actively working to expand support to other tracking devices, such as the company’s Tile.

After its release, AirTags were concerned about possible cases of stalking. To mitigate this problem, Apple introduced an anti-stalking feature on the iPhone that notifies users of unknown AirTags near them. Unfortunately, Android users were left vulnerable unless they knew and downloaded Apple’s Android-based Tracker Detect app.

The lack of an easy way for Android users to detect stalking AirTags has long been a point of criticism, but thanks to Google’s latest security feature, compatible Android devices can now detect nearby AirTags without a separate app.

Collaborative efforts for safer monitoring

Earlier this year, Google and Apple collaborated to propose industry specifications to combat the misuse of Bluetooth target trackers for stalking purposes. This joint effort allows Android and iOS devices to detect nearby Bluetooth devices and issue alerts to third-party tracking devices.

Google plans to include native support for third-party Bluetooth tracking accessories like Tile and Chipolo for Android devices. However, the implementation has been temporarily postponed in accordance with the alarm specifications of the unwanted tracking system developed by Apple.

Prominent companies in the Bluetooth-based tracker market, such as Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, Eufy, and Pebblebee, have expressed their support for this common specification.

A production implementation of the unwanted tracking alert definition is expected to be available by the end of 2023 and will be included in future versions of iOS and Android, improving user security on both platforms.