AirTags are nifty little devices that can help you find lost items, but they can also be used to track people without their knowledge. If you’re concerned about your privacy and want to know if an AirTag is tracking you, here’s a quick guide.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Know if an AirTag is Tracking You
Before diving into the steps, know that following them will help you determine if there’s an unknown AirTag moving with you. This is important for your privacy and security.
Step 1: Listen for a Beeping Sound
AirTags are designed to emit a beeping sound when separated from their owner for a certain period.
When an AirTag is not near its owner’s iPhone, it will start to beep after three days. This sound is a signal for you to start looking around. The beep is designed to alert anyone nearby that an AirTag is present.
Step 2: Use Your iPhone’s ‘Find My’ App
If you have an iPhone, use the ‘Find My’ app to see if there’s an AirTag near you.
The ‘Find My’ app has a feature specifically for detecting unknown AirTags. If an AirTag that’s not registered to you is moving with you, the app will alert you.
Step 3: Physically Inspect Your Belongings
Check your personal items like bags or coats to find any hidden AirTags.
Sometimes, the physical inspection is necessary as an AirTag could be tucked away in a pocket or attached to a strap.
Step 4: Reset Your Location
Move to a different location and see if the AirTag follows you.
If an AirTag is tracking you, it will move as you move. Changing your location can help you confirm if it’s indeed following you.
Step 5: Contact Authorities if Necessary
If you find an unknown AirTag tracking you, you may need to contact local authorities.
It’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and privacy. If you feel that you are being stalked or tracked, contacting the authorities is a reasonable course of action.
After completing these actions, you should have a clear idea of whether an AirTag is tracking you or not. Knowing this will give you peace of mind, or if necessary, the information you need to take further steps to protect your privacy.
Tips: Protecting Yourself from AirTag Tracking
- Regularly check your belongings for any unfamiliar devices.
- Stay updated with the latest privacy features on your devices.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you hear an unexpected beeping sound.
- Educate yourself on how AirTags work and how to disable them.
- Share this knowledge with friends and family so they can also protect their privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I find an unknown AirTag?
If you find an unknown AirTag, hold it close to your iPhone or NFC-capable smartphone to get information about it and instructions on how to disable it.
Can Android users detect AirTags?
Yes, Android users can download the Tracker Detect app from the Google Play Store to detect AirTags.
How far can an AirTag track me?
AirTags use the Find My network, which is essentially a network of Apple devices. So, as long as there are Apple devices around, an AirTag can track you.
Can I disable an AirTag if I find it?
Yes, you can disable an AirTag by removing its battery.
Is it illegal to track someone with an AirTag?
Yes, tracking someone without their consent is considered stalking, which is illegal.
Summary
- Listen for a beeping sound.
- Use your iPhone’s ‘Find My’ app.
- Physically inspect your belongings.
- Reset your location.
- Contact authorities if necessary.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide on how to know if an AirTag is tracking you. The idea of being tracked without your knowledge can be unsettling, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect your privacy. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so keep an eye out for any signs of unwanted tracking. Remember to check your belongings, use technology to your advantage, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you feel your privacy is being invaded. Stay safe out there, and keep your privacy intact!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.