This article isn’t exactly about a scam. There isn’t a call about your personal information. (Although you may get a WARNING call.) There isn’t a request for gift cards or payment via cryptocurrency. It is a warning about your personal safety.
Do you know what an Air Tag or Tile or SmartTag is? These are tracking devices. They are small – about the size of a quarter. These devices area meant to help you track keys, luggage, or other items. They can be used to track pets or even family members with cognitive impairment. They don’t cost much – about $29 on the Apple website.
Not surprising, people who are doing the tracking may not be trying to protect others or their property. Those who have endured domestic violence need to be vigilant about the tracking devices as their abuser may be the ones doing the tracking.
There have been several articles in the news lately about people who have gotten alerts about their device. Perhaps you read about the Sports Illustrated model who warned others about having a tracking device slipped in her pocket while she was out with friends. She received a notice that she was being tracked. She made it home OK but had no idea where or when the device had been slipped in her coat.
Be aware that how Apple notifies their consumers of a device may differ from how an android customer receives notifications.
Car thieves are using the tracking devices to help with the theft of high end or desirable cars. They may also be attracted to any obvious belongings in the car. Thieves could be using the tracking device to find out where the owner lives. Do they own other expensive items in addition to their car? Are they vulnerable to some kind of assault?
Unlike GPS devices, location trackers don’t have to be connected to a power source, and can last for months without being recharged. The devices are connected to an app or an on line account. The devices are small. They may be in a pocket, in a backpack, in a purse, stuck behind a car license plate, stuck under a car bumper, placed under the hood or stuck between car seats.
Here are some hints to help with your safety.
- * If you receive notice that you are being tracked, don’t go home. Go to your local police department or to a public place and call the police.
- * Check with your carrier’s safety information on their tracking devices and any apps you can use for protection.
- * If you are experiencing domestic violence, contact your local Domestic Violence agency for information on how to protect yourself from cyberstalking.
- * Park in well-lit areas.
- * Lock your car, and remove or hide belongings in your car.
Tracking devices can be a huge benefit to those of us who habitually lose our keys and phones, or who need to track our kids or family members for their safety. They can also be used for stalking, stealing, and for controlling those who have been or are being abused.
Be safe.
