Picture this: you leave a late-night café, streetlights casting long shadows as you head to your car. The woman who brushed past you in line barely registers.
Hours later, pulling into your driveway, your phone buzzes: “Unknown AirTag moving with you.”
Standing at your front door, it hits you—someone knows exactly where you are. It’s in that moment — standing outside your own front door — that you realize someone out there knows where you are and when you got home.
AirTags give stalkers one more way to follow us undetected. Here’s how to know if an airtag is tracking you.
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How To Know If An AirTag Is Tracking You
Step 1: Recognize Signs of Unauthorized Tracking
Have you been getting the same alert—“Unknown AirTag detected near you” ? But no matter how much you search, you can’t find it? The device could be anywhere: slipped into your jacket lining, taped under your car bumper, or stashed in your bag.
AirTags rely on Apple's vast Find My Network, which uses millions of Apple devices worldwide to update the AirTag's location. This makes tracking possible even if the stalker is far away.
Step 1: Android Vs Apple Notifications
Check Your Notifications
iPhone users: Look out for the alert, “Unknown AirTag Moving With You.”
Android users: Download the Tracker Detect app from Google Play Store and scan for AirTags periodically.
Step 2: Locate The AirTag
iPhone Users:
Tap on the notification “Unknown AirTag Moving With You.”
Use the map to trace its movement.
Tap Play Sound to help locate it physically.
Android Users:
Open the Tracker Detect app.
Scan for nearby AirTags.
Use the app to play a sound if one is detected.
Listen for Random Beeping
AirTags emit periodic beeps when separated from their owner for an extended period. Pay attention to faint, unfamiliar sounds coming from personal items or vehicles.
Step 3: Search Your Belongings
Perform a thorough search of your surroundings, including:
Clothing and Bags: Check jacket linings, purse pockets, and backpacks.
Vehicles: Look under seats, in wheel wells, under the car, and around bumpers.
Personal Items: Inspect laptops, keychains, or anything you regularly carry.
Step 4: Disable the AirTag
Once you find the AirTag, you can disable it by:
Twisting the Back Off: Hold the AirTag and twist the silver battery cover counterclockwise to open it.
Remove the Battery: Take out the battery to stop it from tracking you.
Step 5: Contact Police & Document Evidence
Document Everything: Take photos of the AirTag and its location. Note when you received the alert and any suspicious activity.
Record details such as the time of the alert and any suspicious activities you’ve noticed.
Report to the Police: Inform law enforcement, providing them with the AirTag as evidence. Apple can work with authorities to trace the serial number back to its owner.
Step 6: Prevent Future Incidents
Limit Sharing Your Location: Avoid sharing your location on social media or with apps unnecessarily.
Common Tactics Stalkers Use
Slipping AirTags Into Personal Items: Stalkers may place an AirTag in a purse, backpack, or even a child's belongings to monitor their target's movements. This method allows for discreet tracking without the victim's knowledge.
Attaching to Vehicles: AirTags can be hidden under car bumpers, inside wheel wells, or other concealed areas of a vehicle, enabling stalkers to track the victim's location. Reports have documented such incidents, highlighting the ease with which these devices can be concealed on vehicles.
Gifting With Hidden Intent: A seemingly innocent gift, like a stuffed toy or keychain, can contain a hidden AirTag, allowing the giver to track the recipient's movements without their consent. This tactic exploits the victim's trust and unsuspecting nature.
Public Places: AirTags can be placed on items like coats or luggage when the target is distracted, such as in cafes, airports, or public transport. This method takes advantage of crowded environments to facilitate covert placement.
Criminal Code of Canada: Stalking Penalties
Under Section 264 of the Criminal Code, criminal harassment—commonly known as stalking—is defined as conduct that causes a victim to reasonably fear for their safety or the safety of someone they know.
This includes repeated following, unwanted communication, loitering near a victim's home or workplace, and making threats.
Stalking is an indictable offense can result in imprisonment for up to 10 years.
Summary convictions carry lesser penalties but still constitute a serious offense
Using a tracking device like an AirTag to monitor someone's movements without their knowledge or consent can constitute criminal harassment. Convictions can result in penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for up to ten years, depending on the severity of the offense.
Privacy Violations
Unauthorized tracking may also violate federal and provincial privacy laws. The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) governs the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information in the private sector.
Collecting location data without consent can breach PIPEDA's provisions, leading to investigations and potential penalties by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
In provinces like British Columbia, the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) provides similar protections. Individuals who believe their privacy rights have been violated can file complaints with the provincial privacy commissioner, who has the authority to investigate and enforce compliance.
Civil Liability
Beyond criminal charges, individuals subjected to unauthorized tracking can pursue civil remedies. Invasion of privacy is recognized as a tort in several provinces, allowing victims to sue for damages.
For instance, in Ontario, the tort of "intrusion upon seclusion" permits individuals to seek compensation for intentional intrusions into their private affairs. Successful claims can result in monetary awards for emotional distress and other harms suffered.
Corporate Accountability
Technology companies like Apple have faced scrutiny over the potential misuse of their products. While Apple has implemented features to deter unauthorized tracking—such as alerts for iPhone users when an unknown AirTag is detected nearby—critics argue that these measures may not be sufficient.
Advocacy groups have called for stricter safeguards and more robust responses to reports of misuse. In response, Apple has stated its commitment to user safety and continues to update its devices to address these concerns.
How Long Do AirTags Last?
AirTags are designed to be low-maintenance tracking devices, and their longevity is one of their standout features. On average, an AirTag battery lasts about one year before it needs to be replaced. This lifespan is based on typical use, such as emitting occasional sounds and being located via the Find My network.
How To Replace AirTag Battery
When your AirTag’s battery runs low, your iPhone will notify you, giving you plenty of time to replace it. AirTags use a CR2032 coin cell battery, which is widely available and inexpensive. Here’s how to replace the battery:
Twist Open the AirTag: Press down on the stainless steel back and twist it counterclockwise.
Remove the Old Battery: Take out the depleted CR2032 battery.
Insert the New Battery: Make sure the positive side is facing up.
Close the AirTag: Align the tabs on the cover with the AirTag and twist it clockwise until it clicks into place.
Replacing the AirTag battery ensures the device continues to function optimally, extending its usability without the need for a new tracker.
Factors Affecting AirTag Battery Life
While a one-year lifespan is typical, certain factors can affect how long the battery lasts:
Frequent Tracking: If you use the Find My network often or make the AirTag play sounds frequently, the battery may drain faster.
Temperature Extremes: Operating the AirTag in very hot or cold environments can reduce battery performance.
Network Activity: Regular updates through the Find My network can slightly impact battery life.
How to Check AirTag Battery Life
You can monitor your AirTag’s battery status through your iPhone:
Open the Find My app.
Select the AirTag from your items list.
Check the battery icon displayed under the AirTag’s name.
By keeping an eye on the battery and replacing it as needed, you can ensure your AirTag remains a reliable tool for tracking your belongings.
FAQ: AirTag Battery Replacement and Lifespan
How to Replace AirTag Battery Without Damaging the Device?
Replacing an AirTag battery is simple and safe if done correctly:
Press down on the stainless steel back of the AirTag.
Twist it counterclockwise until the cover detaches.
Remove the old battery and insert a new CR2032 coin cell battery with the positive side facing up.
Align the cover with the AirTag and twist clockwise until it clicks.
Be gentle to avoid damaging the AirTag’s internal components.
What Are the Best CR2032 Batteries for Apple AirTag Replacement?
Popular CR2032 batteries compatible with AirTags include:
Duracell CR2032
Energizer CR2032
Panasonic CR2032
These brands are reliable, widely available, and ensure optimal performance.
What Is the Step-by-Step Guide to Changing an AirTag Battery?
Locate the AirTag that needs a new battery.
Press and twist the back cover counterclockwise.
Remove the depleted CR2032 battery.
Insert a fresh CR2032 battery with the positive side facing up.
Replace the back cover and twist clockwise until it clicks.
Your AirTag is now ready to use!
What Are the Signs Your AirTag Battery Needs Replacement?
You’ll know it’s time to replace your AirTag battery when:
You receive a low battery alert on your iPhone.
The AirTag stops showing in the Find My app.
The AirTag no longer emits sound when prompted.
Replace the battery promptly to maintain functionality.
How Do I Troubleshoot My AirTag After Battery Replacement?
If your AirTag isn’t working after replacing the battery, try the following:
Ensure the battery is inserted with the positive side facing up.
Check if the battery is a CR2032 without a childproof coating, which can block connection.
Remove and reinsert the battery to ensure proper contact.
Restart your iPhone and check the Find My app again.
If issues persist, contact Apple Support.
How Do I Check AirTag Battery Life on My iPhone?
Open the Find My app on your iPhone.
Select the AirTag from your list of items.
Look for the battery status icon under the AirTag’s name.
The icon indicates if your battery is full, low, or needs replacement.
Do AirTags Need Special Batteries?
No, AirTags use standard CR2032 coin cell batteries, which are commonly available. Avoid batteries with childproof coatings, as these may interfere with connectivity.
How Long Does an AirTag Battery Last Before Replacement?
An AirTag battery typically lasts about one year with regular use. Frequent use of features like sound alerts or Find My tracking may shorten this lifespan.
Can You Use Rechargeable Batteries in AirTags?
Apple recommends using disposable CR2032 batteries for AirTags. Rechargeable CR2032 batteries may not provide consistent voltage, potentially affecting performance.
Where Can I Buy CR2032 Batteries for AirTag Near Me?
CR2032 batteries are widely available at:
Electronics stores like Best Buy or Staples
Supermarkets or convenience stores
Online retailers like Amazon
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