Apple has announced that it will update its Find My network to prevent the misuse of AirTag trackers for stalking.
The tech giant from Cupertino will be in a upcoming software update make a number of changes. This includes a new warning that alerts users during the setup phase that AirTags are linked to their Apple ID and that stalking is a crime. Apple also announced that it will fix a confusing bug in accessory alerts. For example, the "Unknown accessory detected" warning only appears with certain AirPods or Find My accessories - not with AirTags. Going forward, Apple will introduce a new message that informs users when an AirTag is with them.
Further updates are to follow
Apple also updated its unwanted tracking support document on Thursday to reflect some of the new and existing security features of the AirTags and other Find My-enabled accessories. While this update will roll out soon, the iPhone maker also said it plans to make some other changes that are set to arrive later in the year. These other updates include the new Precision Find, which will allow iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13 users to detect and locate unwanted AirTags using Precision Find. Apple also says it is working on a feature that will notify users of the presence of an unwanted AirTag on their own iOS devices. These notifications will also allow them to take action, such as playing a sound on the AirTag or locating it using Precision Find.
Improvements are intended to prevent misuse of AirTags
Other important innovations include the optimization of the AirTag's tone sequence to make it easier to find and the change in the warning logic for unwanted tracking, which should alert users to an unwanted tracker earlier.
We design our products to not only provide a great experience but also with security and privacy in mind. All Apple hardware, software, and service teams are committed to listening to feedback and making improvements to prevent unwanted tracking.
Apple says it is working with law enforcement to prevent the misuse of AirTags, which it says is rare. However, "every case is one too many." (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)
