Learn how AirTag safety alerts work to protect against unwanted tracking, including notifications on iPhone and Android, and steps to take if you receive a warning.
© Apple
Apple designed the AirTag as a convenient way to locate keys, bags, or luggage. However, its compact size and discreet Bluetooth tracking capabilities inevitably raise safety concerns. Apple has integrated protective measures from the outset to mitigate the risk of covert surveillance. If an unfamiliar tracker accompanies you for an extended period, the system should alert you. Let's explore how these notifications function and what steps to take if you receive one.
AirTag and compatible devices operate on the Find My network. They emit a Bluetooth signal, and nearby Apple devices anonymously update their location. Should a tracker become separated from its owner and remain near you for a considerable time, your iPhone or iPad may display a notification.
Possible messages include "AirTag Found Moving With You," "AirPods Detected," or "Unknown Accessory Detected." Tapping the notification opens the Find My app, showing a map with detection points. This doesn't imply the owner was monitoring you in real time—it simply indicates the device was in proximity.
Additionally, an AirTag itself may start emitting a sound if it remains far from its owner for too long. This serves as another protective layer designed to draw attention. Importantly, Apple collaborated with Google to develop a cross-platform standard. Consequently, alerts about potential tracking can appear not only on iPhones but also on Android devices.
On iPhone, tracking notifications are enabled by default, but it's wise to verify settings. The device should run iOS 17.5 or later for optimal compatibility. Bluetooth, Location Services, and notifications must also be active.
Within Settings, navigate to Privacy & Security → Location Services and enable Significant Locations. This helps the system detect if an unknown tracker follows you to places like home. If these features are disabled, your iPhone might not warn you about a potential issue.
Upon receiving a warning, first assess the situation. You might have borrowed an item with an AirTag or be near someone who owns a tracker. In such cases, you can temporarily disable notifications for that specific device.
If the tracker doesn't belong to you and its origin is unclear, use the Find My app to play a sound to locate it. iPhone owners with Ultra Wideband support can utilize Precision Finding, which displays direction and distance to the AirTag.
If electronic methods fail, manually check bags, pockets, clothing, and your car. Upon hearing the distinctive chirp, note the sound's source. If you feel threatened, move to a safe public area and contact law enforcement if necessary.
Even if the device is locked, it can be identified. Simply hold an NFC-capable smartphone near the white side of the AirTag. A notification will appear on screen with a link to a page showing the serial number and the last digits of the owner's phone number. If marked as lost, there may be a message with contact details. This helps determine whether the situation is accidental or warrants more serious attention.
If you're certain an AirTag is being used for tracking, it can be deactivated. To do this, open the back cover and remove the battery—this stops the device from transmitting data. Turning off Bluetooth or Location Services on your phone won't halt the tracker, so physical deactivation is crucial.
In cases of suspected malicious use, preserve the device and record its information. According to official statements, Apple can provide details to law enforcement upon lawful request.
On modern Android versions, notifications about unknown trackers are enabled automatically. Manual scanning is also available. Furthermore, the Google Play Store offers the free Tracker Detect app, which allows detection of nearby AirTag and compatible accessories and can trigger a sound to aid in locating them if needed.
The AirTag is a useful tool for finding belongings, but Apple has built a multi-layered protection system against misuse. Notifications, audible alerts, and Android support significantly reduce the risk of covert tracking. By understanding what warnings look like and how to respond, you can maintain peace of mind and act confidently if a situation seems suspicious.