In a class action lawsuit against Apple, 37 individuals have joined together to claim that they have been stalked using Apple AirTags. The plaintiffs allege that perpetrators hid AirTags inside their personal belongings to track their movements surreptitiously.
While Apple AirTags have gained popularity for helping people locate lost items such as wallets, luggage, and even children, this lawsuit suggests a more sinister misuse of the technology. The case, initially filed two women last year, argues that AirTags have been employed stalkers to monitor their victims’ whereabouts. Due to their small size, these devices can be easily concealed in victims’ pockets, cars, or bags. Furthermore, with a relatively low cost of $29, they are readily accessible to individuals with malicious intent.
The lawsuit, which can be accessed here, describes AirTags as the stalking weapon of choice, stating that “It has become the weapon of choice for stalkers and abusers.” The primary plaintiff, Lauren Hughes, shares her harrowing experience of being tracked her ex-boyfriend using an AirTag hidden in her car’s wheel. The AirTag enabled him to locate her, including her temporary hotel stay and new residence.
Real-time location tracking is identified as one of the most dangerous and frightening methods utilized stalkers in the lawsuit. The constant transmission of location information to an abuser leaves the victims with nowhere to hide, perpetuating feelings of fear and powerlessness.
Apart from the ongoing lawsuit, there have been other instances of misuse of AirTags. In January 2022, an influencer reported being tracked someone who had discreetly placed an AirTag in her coat while she was at a bar in New York City. Additionally, there have been reports of criminals utilizing AirTags to plot car thefts, with thieves hiding these devices in high-end vehicles to track their locations and eventually steal them.
While Apple has implemented certain safety measures, including notifying users if they are traveling with an AirTag that does not belong to them, the lawsuit claims that these precautions have not been sufficient. The plaintiffs argue that individuals have been murdered or have murdered others while using AirTags to track stolen property and confront thieves.
Several notable cases are cited as evidence, such as the charges brought against four individuals after an AirTag was used to track and kill a 61-year-old woman in California. Another tragic incident involved an Indiana woman who used an AirTag to track her boyfriend, leading to his death amid suspicions of infidelity.
Insider reached out to Apple for comment, but the company has not responded at the time of writing.
Overall, the lawsuit against Apple paints a distressing picture of the potential dangers associated with AirTags when misused individuals with malicious intent. While these tracking devices can offer convenience and peace of mind in certain situations, it is crucial to prioritize user safety and take proactive measures to prevent their exploitation for harmful purposes.