Apple Tracker Detect helps protect Android users from AirTag stalkers

Apple is giving Android users a way to keep stalkers or other unsavoury characters who use AirTags or other Find My-compatible devices to snoop their location. The company launched the new app Tracker Detect that flags a nearby AirTag separated from its owner as an "Unknown AirTag." And if it follows you for 10 minutes, you can use the app to tell the tracker to play a sound so you can locate it. Once found, you can tap the tracker with your NFC-compatible phone to get instructions on removing the battery or disabling it.

Since it works with other Find My-compatible trackers, it can also locate accessories like the Chipolo One Spot. Unlike iOS, where Apple device owners already get alerts when an errant AirTag is around, you will need to download this app to get those alerts. Hopefully, similar protections will make their way to Android in the future.

Unfortunately, bad actors have been abusing AirTags and other similar devices to stalk people. Apple, back in June, updated the AirTag to play a sound between eight and 24 hours after being separated from their owner instead of the three-day wait when it launched.

Source: Engadget