Apple Air Tags
I am becoming increasingly aware, from the Shadow of a Doorway, that not all car enthusiasts have honest intentions at Car Shows. In 2024, criminals have been exploiting Apple's AirTag tracking devices to steal cars by utilising the technology's small size and location tracking capabilities. Here's how the process usually works:
Tagging the Target Vehicle: Criminals place an AirTag on a target vehicle. The device is usually hidden in inconspicuous places such as under the bumper, inside the gas cap, or behind license plates. This placement is done surreptitiously while the vehicle is parked in public areas like shopping malls, parking lots, or even residential streets.
Tracking the Vehicle: Once the AirTag is attached, it begins transmitting its location. The criminals can then use the Find My app to track the vehicle's movements. This allows them to monitor the car's location in real time, often waiting for it to be parked in a more isolated or less secure area.
Theft Execution: When the vehicle is parked in a favorable location, the thieves strike. They use various methods to bypass the vehicle’s security systems, such as hacking keyless entry systems or using relay attacks to mimic the car’s key fob signal. The precise tracking provided by the AirTag ensures that the thieves know exactly where the vehicle is and can plan their theft with minimal risk of being caught.
Evasion of Detection: Apple has implemented some anti-stalking features in AirTags, such as notifications to iPhones if an unknown AirTag is detected moving with them, and periodic beeping sounds. However, criminals attempt to circumvent these measures by placing the AirTag in locations that muffle the sound or by removing the AirTag before the vehicle owner notices the notification.
Post-Theft Utilisation: After the vehicle is stolen, it is often moved to a predetermined location where it can be stripped for parts, cloned, or re-sold. The AirTag may still be used to ensure that the stolen vehicle reaches its final destination without issues.
Despite Apple's efforts to address misuse through updates and new features, criminals continue to find ways to leverage AirTags for illicit activities. Vehicle owners are advised to regularly inspect their vehicles for any unfamiliar devices and remain vigilant to notifications about unknown AirTags traveling with them.
Posts
0 Comments