Apple addresses AirTag stalking reports with new safety guide

Apple addresses AirTag stalking reports with new safety guide

• By Staff Writer

Apple on Tuesday launched a new personal safety guide for its AirTag tracking accessory following reports that the device has been used to stalk people.

The company's "Personal Safety Guide" on its website was updated with new information on how people can check they're carrying an unknown AirTag and what to do if they hear an AirTag alert or receive a notification.

The guide – which Apple says is intended for people who are concerned about technology-enabled abuse, stalking, or harassment – also explains how to check for AirTags using Android devices.

Apple says in the safety guide that someone who feels that their safety is at risk can contact their local US law enforcement who can then liaise with the company.

Apple didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. The company confirmed to TechCrunch the safety guide was updated on Tuesday.

airbags, priced from $29, are intended to help users keep track of personal items.

However, the device has come under scrutiny after reports emerged of its use among people who have experienced stalking and harassment.

Police in Canada warned in December that thieves were using AirTags to track high-end vehicles to owners' driveways, and then steal them, Insider reported.

The Guardian reported on January 20 that a woman said an Apple AirTag had been inserted into her coat pocket while she was in a restaurant, and she had been tracked for four hours.

CNBC and BBC have also recently reported people receiving notifications that they've been tracked by unknown AirTags.

In June, Apple updated its AirTags privacy settings so that the device beeps at any time between 8 and 24 hours after disconnecting from the owner.