How would you feel if you found out that a Bluetooth device was secretly tracking your every move? Terrifying, right? Well, this is the scary reality for some people who have been targeted by stalkers using Bluetooth trackers.
These trackers are meant to help you find your lost items, such as your car keys or wallet, but they can also be used for malicious purposes. Google is aware of this problem and has decided to take action to protect Android users from unwanted tracking. Here’s what you need to know.
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At its annual developer conference, I/O 2023, Google unveiled 'Unknown Tracker Alerts,' a new safety feature coming for select Android models.
This feature will alert users if an unfamiliar Bluetooth device appears to be tracking them over extended periods or if it's separated from its owner yet seems to be moving with them. Users can then issue an alert, locate the tracker, and report it to the authorities.
Google’s feature also detects Apple AirTags, which are Bluetooth trackers that use Apple’s Find My network to locate items. AirTags have some anti-stalking measures built into them, but they are not foolproof.
The feature will be available for Android 6.0+ users beginning this month and aims to enhance user safety and privacy.
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How exactly will Google's new unknown tracker alert feature work?
This new feature will scan for any Bluetooth trackers that are not paired with the user’s Android device. If it finds any, it will alert the user with a notification and a map that shows the tracker’s movements.
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The Android user will then be able to have the tracker make a sound so that they can easily identify where it's located. If a stalker planted it on the Android user, it could be located in their bag or even their pocket without their knowledge. The owner of the tracker will not be notified that the tracker has made any noise.
Once the tracker is found, the feature will help the Android user find out who the tracker belongs to by pulling up its serial number and any other information about the owner of the tracker. It will then provide information on how to disable the tracker.
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If you are concerned about being stalked by Bluetooth trackers, there are some precautions in addition to the 'Unknown Tracker Alerts' feature you can take to protect yourself and your privacy.
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For my best AirTag and Tile tracker options, head over to CyberGuy.com/BluetoothTrackers
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This is a big step in the right direction for Google and all Android users. Google is also developing a network similar to Apple's Find My Network so that Android users can keep track of all their devices in one place. The top priority for these big companies should always be safety for their customers, and I'm glad to see that Google is making this happen.
What else do you think could be done to keep stalkers from using Bluetooth trackers in this way? Let us know by writing us at CyberGuy.com/Contact
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