How to know if we have an AirTag nearby

How to know if we have an AirTag nearby

The technology behind AirTags, Apple's small tracking devices, has revolutionized the way we find lost items by offering fairly accurate and inexpensive tracking, but it has also raised concerns about privacy and security. Have you ever wondered if someone could be tracking you with one of these devices? Knowing whether you have an AirTag nearby can make the difference between protecting your privacy or exposing yourself to potential risks.

In this article, we'll explore how to identify if an AirTag is nearby, what to do if you find one, and how to protect yourself in this situation.

What is an AirTag and how does it work?

What is an airtag?

Although we already have Several posts dedicated to this, in case you are new to the web, we are going to tell you what an AirtTag is.

An AirTag is a small device, designed to locate objects such as keys, backpacks or wallets, which works through Apple's Find My network, which uses millions of Apple devices around the world to track and locate objects (without, the one with which you can block your stolen iPhone)

Although they are useful tools, AirTags have also been misused to following people without their consent And that's why we think it's important to learn how to detect if someone has placed an AirTag near you.

Why should you care about having an AirTag nearby?

AirTag stack

While Apple has implemented measures to prevent misuse of AirTags, there are situations where someone could try to track your movements by placing an AirTag near you. This could happen in your car, backpack, or even your personal belongings. For this reason, Detecting an AirTag nearby is essential to protecting yourself against these risks.

The risks include:

  • invasion of privacy: Someone might know your daily routes.
  • Unauthorized tracking: They could track your locations without you realizing it.
  • Possible thefts: Know where you leave your valuables.

How to know if you have an AirTag nearby

AirTag Leather Loop and AirTag Key Ring

You receive a notification on your iPhone

One of the first signs that there's an AirTag nearby is getting an alert on your Apple device. If you have an updated iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you'll get a notification that says something like: “An unknown AirTag was detected near you.”

This happens when an AirTag that isn't linked to your Apple account moves with you for an extended period of time, as this is Apple's way of protecting your privacy.

You physically check your belongings

If you don't have an Apple device, but you suspect someone might have placed an AirTag nearby, It's a good idea to check your belongingsAirTags are small and easy to hide, so I would look for them in purses or backpacks, the inside of your car, especially in places like the seats or trunk, or even everyday items like coats or boxes.

You hear a strange sound

After some time away from their owner, AirTags make a sound to alert people nearbyThis beep is distinctive and can help you locate your device, so if you hear a sound you can't identify, it could be an AirTag nearby.

You use the “Find My” app or third-party applications

  • If you have an iPhone: Open the “Find My” app and select the “Items” option. If there is an AirTag nearby that is not yours, should appear in the list.
  • If you use Android: Apple has released a free app called Tracker Detector, which allows you to identify devices like AirTags around you. Simply download the app and perform a scan.

What to do if you find an AirTag nearby?

Airtag card

You've found an AirTag you weren't expecting in the most unexpected place... before throwing it away, eye! that you can still (and in part should) do things with it:

Don't ignore it

If you find an AirTag near your belongings, exercise caution as it could be a error or a sign that someone is trying to track you.

Identify it with your phone

Bring an NFC-enabled device, such as an iPhone or most Android phones, close to the AirTag. Tap it with your phone, and a link will appear on the screen that takes you to a website where you can obtain information about the owner, if available.

Disable it temporarily

To prevent it from continuing to send signals, You can open the AirTag and remove the battery, to do this you only need to turn the back of the device to access the compartment.

Contact the authorities

If you believe that the AirTag was placed with malicious intent, Do not delete it without first informing the authorities, as this could be evidence in case of unauthorized tracking.

How to protect yourself from an AirTag nearby

Install the new AirTag update

There are four routines of «privacy hygiene» that you should keep in mind now that AirTags have become so widespread:

Keep your devices up to date

Apple is constantly improving AirTag detection tools and that is why we advise you to keep your iPhone or iPad up to date to ensure you receive the latest security notifications.

Check your items frequently

Make it a habit to inspect your personal belongings, especially if you suspect that someone might be following you. Of course, without bordering on paranoid.

Use specialized apps

If you are an Android user, applications like Tracker Detect can be your allies, since allow you to track any Bluetooth tracking device in your area.

Be discreet with your routines

Avoid sharing personal information or your frequent locations on social networks: The fewer details people know, the less likely they are to try to track you down..

While having an AirTag nearby isn't necessarily a bad thing, it's better to be prepared just in case.

Air Tag

While it is true that the presence of an AirTag nearby does not always indicate a problem, We believe that it is essential to be alert and know how to act., as these small devices are powerful tools, but they can also be used for malicious purposes.

Remember: if you have an iPhone, Stay tuned for notificationsIf you use Android, download apps that help you detect AirTags and if you still think you may be being spied on with one of these gadgets, regularly check your belongings and take steps to protect your privacy, which may not seem very important.


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