Beware of this Vehicle Theft Method Using Apple AirTags
A method using Apple’s Bluetooth tracking device the ‘AirTag’ is being used to track motorhomes and campervans. It’s believed that thieves employ this method to track the vehicles’ locations for future thefts.
In this guide, we’ll be taking you through how criminals target your vehicle, how these trackers work, and how to identify if your motorhome or campervan is being tracked.
Images from Vancon Conversions’ Facebook Post
In a recent post from Vancon Conversions, while inspecting a vehicle’s electrics, they discovered an AirTag. They shared the following warning on their Facebook page:
“Word of warning to all you campers out there….
Our customer came in today for an electrics check over, while doing our checks we found this apple air tag fitted in his hook up socket.. only 2 nights ago it wasn’t there.. they’re obviously starting to track what vehicles they want to steal… this was stuck in at cart gate services Yeovil he thinks as that’s where he last stopped …”
How do these trackers work?
Apple’s AirTag works using the ‘Find My’ network, where users can detect the locations of their Apple devices. When an AirTag is activated, its location can be found from long distances using other in-range Apple devices that detect the AirTag’s Bluetooth signal and anonymously relay the location back to the user.
The Apple AirTag seems to be commonly used by criminals due to its small size (around the size of a 50p coin) making it easy to hide. However, there are also other small trackers such as the Chipolo or Tile that you should also watch out for.
How do I check if an Air Tag is following me?
By default when an AirTag is separated from its owner for a certain amount of time it should make a beeping sound to alert anyone nearby, however, many criminals who use these tags have found a way to remove the speaker to prevent victims from knowing they are being tracked.
However, most newer phones have ‘unwanted tracking’ features, meaning if a tracker is following you, you should get a notification to alert you. To check if you have this feature and to turn it on you will need to do the following:
For Apple devices:
Go to Settings > Notifications > Tracking Notifications, then turn on Allow Notifications.
For Android Devices
Go to Settings > Safety and emergency > Unknown tracker alerts > Allow alerts
Alternatives:
If you find that your device does not have the option to detect unknown trackers there is a tracker detection app you can download instead.
You can download Tracker Detect here.
What to do if you find an Apple AirTag on your vehicle?
If you find an AirTag on your vehicle remove the battery, this way the tracker can no longer actively track your location.
To remove the battery you’ll need to press down on the silver backplate and twist anticlockwise. The video below explains and shows how to remove the battery:
If you receive a notification that an AirTag is tracking you on iPhone you should be able to view the route that the AirTag has followed while tracking you.
Image Source: Apple Support
This information can be useful in determining whether a thief may have knowledge of where your vehicle is stored when it’s not in use. If you believe that thieves may know the location of where you keep your vehicle, it is strongly recommended to invest in some security deterrents, such as wheel clamps and steering wheel locks, as well as reliable alarms and trackers.
If you believe your safety is at risk, it’s important to contact local law enforcement. They can work with Apple to request information related to the item and possibly identify the owner of the AirTag.
Peace of Mind Against Theft
With a fully comprehensive Comfort Motorhome Insurance or Campervan Insurance policy underwritten by Aviva, you have the peace of mind of knowing in the event of a claim your vehicle is covered!
Did you know 98.97% of Comfort Insurance customer’s claims were paid, so we’re confident that yours will be too!
Get reputable cover for your vehicle today! Get a quote online or give us a call on 0208 984 0777!
*As of the 17th October 2023 Aviva stated that 98.97% of all claims were paid out
Source links:
- https://support.apple.com/en-lk/guide/personal-safety/ips139b15fd9/web
- https://www.gearpatrol.com/tech/apple-airtags-distance-range-battery-life-faq/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3yoZP1UztSQgxRwyf_AqMcGaBZ3NMhPyl26Poj8WidBj_2BQHipSyWuZo_aem_5xjPY2q4UXZy6hT_JlfCLA
- https://support.google.com/android/answer/13658562?visit_id=638525910154486952-839086324&
Disclaimer: At the date of publication all information within this article was factually accurate. However, changes in circumstances over time may impact the accuracy of the information.
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We’re a family run business with over 30 years' experience in the provision of specialist motorhome and campervan insurance. With a wealth of awards under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing a friendly and professional service, offering you the most comprehensive cover money can buy - starting from just £250!
We’re a family run business with over 30 years' experience in the provision of specialist motorhome and campervan insurance. With a wealth of awards under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing a friendly and professional service, offering you the most comprehensive cover money can buy - starting from just £200!
