Apple AirTags: A Stalker’s “Weapon of Choice”
Apple’s AirTags, initially designed to help people find their lost items, have become the center of a stormy legal battle. A class-action lawsuit alleges that the tracking devices have been weaponized for stalking, leading to severe consequences including multiple murders. This article delves into the details of the lawsuit, the victims’ experiences, and the broader implications for personal security.
The Lawsuit Unveiled
The lawsuit, which began as a complaint filed on behalf of two victims, has now expanded to represent more than three dozen individuals. These victims claim that AirTags have been used for stalking in at least 20 U.S. states. The complaint specifically mentions that the devices have been used in “multiple murders,” including a case where a woman allegedly used an AirTag to track her boyfriend and subsequently ran him over with her car.
The Stalking Epidemic
According to the lawsuit, there has been an “explosion of reporting” showing that AirTags are frequently used for stalking. This includes a spike in international AirTags stalking cases and more than 150 police reports in the U.S. as of April 2022. In one U.S. metropolitan area—Tulsa, Oklahoma—alone, there were 19 AirTags stalking cases.
Apple’s Response: Adequate or Not?
Apple has implemented several security features to mitigate the risks, including iOS alerts when AirTags are nearby and chimes installed in AirTags to help victims detect them. Despite these efforts, the lawsuit argues that Apple’s protective measures are “totally inadequate”.
Table: Apple’s Security Measures for AirTags
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| iOS Alerts | Notifications when an AirTag is detected |
| Chimes | Sounds to help locate hidden AirTags |
| Tracker Detect App | Allows Android users to scan for AirTags |
Apple Deadline
Apple has until October 27 to respond to the lawsuit. The outcome could set a precedent for how tech companies are held accountable for the unintended consequences of their products. So, keep your eyes peeled; this is a story with far-reaching implications.