Car thieves have embraced keyless entry systems and now they’re turning to Apple AirTags.
The tracking devices make finding your keys a breeze, but they can also be used for nefarious purposes such as stalking. However, they’re raising eyebrows today as Canada’s York Regional Police warned they’re being used to help steal high-end vehicles.
In a press release, spotted by BGR, officials from the Auto/Cargo Theft Unit revealed “officers have investigated five incidents where suspects have placed small tracking devices on high-end vehicles so they can later locate and steal them.” Police went on to explain AirTags are “placed in out-of-sight areas” on target vehicles when they’re parked in public places such as malls or grocery stores.
Also Watch: A Number Of New Cars Can Be Stolen In Less Than A Minute Thanks To Keyless Entry Systems
Once the owner returns home, thieves use the device to track them back to their house and then steal the vehicle from their driveway. Since thieves know where the vehicle is located, they can wait until night when the owner is presumably sleeping and their theft will be aided by the cover of darkness.
While police specifically called out Apple AirTags, they’re not the only devices that can be used this way. Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTags are similar and Tile has been a leader in the tracking segment for years.
Sadly, there isn’t much people can do to avoid having their car tagged as thieves target them when they’re out in public. However, the York Regional Police suggested drivers inspect their vehicle regularly and call authorities “if you notice any suspicious potential tracking devices.” It’s also important to note Apple notifies users if an “unknown AirTag is seen to be traveling with them from place to place over time,” although that warning might come too late.
To help prevent car theft, police urge drivers to park in a locked garage as most vehicles are stolen from a driveway. If that’s not possible, they suggest getting a steering wheel or data port lock. The Club is widely known, but data port locks are newer and help to prevent thieves from reprogramming keys.
