Apple working on updates making AirTag more safer for users by restricting unwanted tracking

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With an aim to curb unwanted tracking, Apple has announced to make key updates to AirTags that lets users keep track of personal items like their keys, wallet, purse, backpack, luggage and more through the Find My app.

The company said it will soon implement a series of updates to both AirTags and the Find My network, initially beginning with new privacy warnings, alerts and documentation.

"In an upcoming software update, every user setting up their AirTag for the first time will see a message that clearly states that AirTag is meant to track their own belongings," said Apple.

The user will also be notified that using AirTag to track people without consent is a crime in many regions around the world, AirTag is designed to be detected by victims, and that "law enforcement can request identifying information about the owner of the AirTag".

The warning alerts will make it clear that the AirTag is linked to an Apple ID, that using it to track people is a crime, and that law enforcement can request identifying information about the owner of the AirTag.

Apple also said it's been actively working with law enforcement on all AirTag-related requests it receives, and noted it's able to provide the account details in response to valid law enforcement request.

"The alerts system Apple has notifying potential victims of any unwanted tracking has helped shine a light on a problem that existed long before AirTags came on the market," said Erica Olsen, director of the Safety Net Project at the National Network to End Domestic Violence.

"We are happy Apple is engaging in the conversation about victim safety and are continuing to improve safeguards. We hope others will follow their lead," Olsen added.

In addition, the company said it heard from users how they received an alert about an "Unknown Accessory Detected", which made them think an unknown AirTag was tracking them.

Apple will now update this alert to indicate that "AirPods" have been travelling with the user instead of an "Unknown Accessory".

"What these unwanted tracking alerts are showing us is that Apple's system is working and, at the same time, raising awareness of this issue," said Renee Williams, executive director, National Center for Victims of Crime.

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