A hidden AirTag can be disabled easily if found by cutting the power. Bluetooth tracking devices have been available for years now, but Apple's trackers revolutionized the industry. Built into the company's Find My ecosystem, AirTags refresh their location whenever they come in contact with another Apple device. With over one billion active devices in the network — including iOS, iPad OS, WatchOS and Mac OS devices — the precision to which AirTags can be located is downright impressive. Unfortunately, that means people can be tracked using the same technology.
Now that crimes are reportedly being facilitated using AirTag trackers, the privacy concerns associated with having mainstream, discreet trackers are becoming more prominent. In response, Apple made sweeping changes to its software to protect users from hidden trackers. For Apple users, the company shortened the length of time in range of an unknown AirTag before a response is triggered, providing warnings to users sooner. For Android users, the company added a new app that scans a user's surroundings for unknown trackers, providing peace of mind to privacy-conscious individuals. However, especially for non-Apple users, the software updates only solve part of the problem. Luckily, there is hardware recourse to protect someone's privacy.
If someone receives a warning notification for an unknown AirTag, all this means is the tracker isn't associated with the person's iCloud account. It doesn't ensure that the person is in imminent danger or is being tracked. The first thing they should do after receiving a warning notification is to check whether anyone they may be traveling with is using an AirTag. It's currently not possible to 'approve' certain AirTags, so trackers owned by a partner or relative will still provide warnings. If it's not immediately clear that an AirTag is owned by someone known, contacting local law enforcement could be helpful. Reports of warnings preventing crime due to law enforcement intervention have been just as common as reports of AirTags facilitating crime.
How To Stop An AirTag Sharing Its Location
If a hidden AirTag is found, the tracker's removable battery offers a quick and easy way to stop the tracker from transmitting its current location. Apple Support published a battery replacement video guide, which shows the process only takes seconds to complete. The person just needs to twist the stainless steel backplate of the AirTag counterclockwise to release it. After it's turned enough, the spring behind the coin-cell battery will slightly pop the backplate off. As soon as the battery is removed from the contacts, the tracker will stop transmitting its location. It is important to note, though, that the owner of the tracker will be able to see the last recorded location of the AirTag.
With the prominence of AirTags, and the evolution of their capabilities, it's crucial to remain vigilant and take warnings from Apple seriously. Third-party modifications are possible, further complicating the privacy concerns associated with the trackers. Most of all, it is important to notify law enforcement and local authorities if there is suspected danger. Chances are, a hidden AirTag will be in an inconspicuous location, like the wheel well of a car. Professionals are more likely to spot an AirTag in these locations, and the sooner a tracker can be found, the sooner it can be disabled.
Source: Apple Support, Apple Support/YouTube