SOLVED: Can An Apple Air Tag Be Tracked Back To Its Owner?

One of our clients attached air tags to pile of different equipment they had set out so that thieves could easily take them. In the security world, we call that a honey pot. This client however did not want the thieves to be able to figure out who was tracking them if the air tags were detected. They are out of luck, Apple Air Tags are easily tracable back to the owner.

The answer is, Apple and most other tracking tags do track back to the owner, but some others do not.

Apple Air Tags

Initally Apple Air Tags did not require the tags to detail who the owner was. Since their launch in April 2021, Apple has been addressing privacy concerns withi Air Tags. By February 2022, Apple announced updates to enhance privacy and prevent unwanted tracking. These updates included new privacy warnings during AirTag setup, alerts for iOS users if an unknown AirTag is traveling with them, and the ability for law enforcement to request identifying information about the owner of an AirTag.

If you find an AirTag, you can use any device with NFC (Near Field Communication), such as an iPhone or Android phone, to see if the AirTag’s owner marked it as lost. By holding the top of your device near the white side of the AirTag, a notification will appear. Tapping the notification opens a website that provides information about the AirTag, including its serial number and the last four digits of the phone number of the person who registered it.

Apple has also worked closely with safety groups and law enforcement to ensure that AirTags are used responsibly and to help trace any misuse. These measures aim to provide users with peace of mind while using AirTags to track their personal belongings.

Other Popular Air Tags

Most reputable trackers have privacy and security measures in place to prevent misuse and unauthorized tracking. Here are some options:

1. Tile: Tile trackers, such as the Tile Mate and Tile Pro, are popular alternatives. They work with both Android and iOS devices and have features to alert users if an unknown tracker is detected traveling with them.
2. Chipolo: Chipolo offers trackers like the Chipolo ONE and Chipolo CARD, which are compatible with Android devices. They also have privacy features to prevent unauthorized tracking.
3. Samsung Galaxy SmartTag: If you have a Samsung Galaxy phone, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag is a good option. It integrates well with Samsung devices and offers tracking features.
4. Cube GPS Tracker: Cube offers GPS trackers that provide location history and can be used with Android devices. These trackers are designed for more extensive tracking needs.

All of these trackers offer robust tracking capabilities, it’s important to note that they still have privacy features to ensure responsible use and let people who have physical contact with them track back to the owner.

Which Tracking Tags Do Not Track Back To The Owner

While most reputable item trackers have privacy and security measures in place to prevent misuse and unauthorized tracking, there are some covert GPS trackers designed for stealth monitoring that do not provide tracking back to the owner.

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These trackers work on different technology requiring them to be much larger and more expensive that Apple Air Tags. However, they are often used for discreet tracking and can be hidden from view. Here are a few examples:

1. Tracki GPS Tracker: This small, covert GPS tracker can be hidden in vehicles, bags, or other personal items. It provides real-time location updates without revealing the owner’s information.
2. Spytec GL300 GPS Tracker: This tracker is designed for discreet tracking and can be used for vehicles, assets, or personal belongings. It offers real-time tracking without disclosing the owner’s identity.
3. LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker: This compact tracker is ideal for covert tracking and can be placed in various locations. It provides real-time location updates without revealing the owner’s information.

It’s important to note that using such devices for unauthorized tracking can be illegal and unethical. If you’re looking for a tracker for legitimate purposes, it’s best to choose one that has privacy features to ensure responsible use.

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