NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — New York Attorney General Letitia James alerted New Yorkers on Wednesday about the threat posed by Apple AirTags.
The Bluetooth tracking device, launched by the tech giant last year, allows users to find personal objects with the Apple's Find My app. However, James warned the devices could be used criminally by "bad actors."
"Individuals have reported finding unknown AirTags attached to their cars and in their purses, coat pockets, and other personal property," James said. "Others have reportedly received alerts on their phones that their location information is being shared, even when the targets do not find an AirTag or another connected accessory."
Her warning comes months after The New York Times cited seven women who alleged they were followed by the wireless tracker.
In January, Sports Illustrated model Brooks Nader told NBC's "Today" she felt "something wasn't right" when she was walking alone from a night out in the city and received an iPhone notification reporting she was carrying an "unknown accessory."
Eventually, she received another alert that read, "This item has been moving with you for a while. The owner can see its location."
Unknowingly, the 26-year-old had been carrying around the $29 device for hours before Apple’s abuse prevention system notified her phone.
Apple has since announced software updates to boost its safety, including new privacy warnings and sound alerts.
However, James is now one of the latest state attorneys general to sound the alarm.
"Across the country, Apple AirTags are being misused to track people and their belongings to cause harm," James said in a statement. "Tracking people without their awareness or consent is a serious felony and will not be tolerated by my office."
She added, "I urge all New Yorkers to pay close attention to their belongings and follow the tips provided by my office to stay safe. New Yorkers’ safety is my top priority, and my office will continue to do everything in its power to protect New Yorkers."
James offered six tips for consumers to follow:
• Listen for unfamiliar beeping.
• Watch for “Item Detected Near You” notifications on iPhones.
• If you have an Android device, download Tracker Detect from the Google Play Store.
• Know that not all unfamiliar AirTags are malicious.
• Read Apple's updated guidance.
• Update your Apple device’s operating system.
To report a misused Apple AirTag found in your belongings, please contact the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) immediately by filing a complaint with the OAG Internet and Technology Bureau.
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