Apple AirTags are small devices that are easily hidden in the glove box or tucked under the seat and can be used to track your car without you knowing it. Here's a simple guide to check if your vehicle has AirTags installed, ensuring privacy and peace of mind on the road.
Where Are AirTags Usually Found on Cars?
AirTags, while small and inconspicuous, can be cleverly hidden in several areas around a car. Often, individuals with ill intentions place these tracking devices in spots where they are not easily noticeable. Here are some common hiding places where you might find an AirTag on a vehicle:
Wheel Wells
The space behind the wheel well housing is a favored spot because it's tucked away and out of direct sight. An AirTag can be easily slipped into the gap between the tire and the fender, making it nearly invisible unless you know exactly where to look.
Behind the License Plate
Another discreet location is behind the vehicle’s license plate. This spot provides a shielded area that can conceal an AirTag completely from view, yet allows it to function effectively.
Under the Car
The underside of a car offers numerous nooks where an AirTag can be hidden, including near the chassis or among the small recesses near suspension components.
Inside the Glove Compartment
Inside the car, one common hiding place is the glove compartment. It's an easy spot to access and leaves the AirTag hidden in plain sight among other items.
Under Seats
Sliding an AirTag under a seat is a quick and effective way to conceal it. This location is particularly challenging to notice, especially if the AirTag is placed deep under the seat rails.
In the Trunk
The trunk provides various crevices and compartments that can serve as ideal hiding spots for an AirTag, obscured among tools or spare tires.
Finding an AirTag with an iPhone
If you’re an iPhone user and concerned about an unknown AirTag on your car, Apple’s integrated features make it easy to detect and locate any hidden tags. Here's a step-by-step guide to finding an AirTag using your iPhone:
Automatic Notifications
Ensure your iPhone’s Bluetooth and Location Services are active. When an unrecognized AirTag is close to you, your iPhone will alert you automatically. This feature is designed to prevent someone from tracking you without your consent.
Play a Sound
If you get an alert about an AirTag nearby, you can prompt it to emit a sound to help pinpoint its exact location. Simply tap the alert, continue, and select 'Play Sound.' The AirTag will emit a tone, assisting you in locating it, whether it’s hidden under a seat or tucked in a corner of the trunk.
Using Find Nearby
For more precise tracking, if you have an iPhone 11 or later, use the 'Find Nearby' option. After tapping the alert and selecting 'Continue,' choose 'Find Nearby' and follow the on-screen instructions. Your phone will display the distance and direction to the AirTag, making it easier to find.
Remember, AirTags emit a periodic beep after being separated from their owner for three days. If you hear this sound unexpectedly, it's a good clue to start searching your vehicle. However, no sound will be emitted if the AirTag is within range of its registered owner. By following these steps, you’ll quickly discover whether there's an AirTag tracking your vehicle.
Finding an AirTag with an Android
For Android users, the process involves a couple of extra steps, but it’s still pretty straightforward. Apple has developed a dedicated app for this, making the search for AirTags easy even without owning an iPhone. Follow these steps:
Related read: How do turn off Find My Device Android.
Download the Tracker Detect App
Head over to the Google Play Store and download Apple's "Tracker Detect" app. This app lets Android users scan their surroundings for unfamiliar AirTags.
Run a Scan
Open the app, grant the necessary permissions, and hit the scan button. The app will alert you if it finds an unknown AirTag within range.
Play a Sound
If the AirTag has been nearby for more than 10 minutes, you’ll have the option to play a sound to help locate it. Since the app only allows sound to be played after 10 minutes, you may need to wait if the AirTag hasn’t been near you that long.
This method is particularly useful if you suspect an AirTag has been hidden somewhere in your car, like under a seat or in the glove compartment.
Additionally, for those who prefer not to download another app or are looking for a more versatile solution, consider using Seinoxn, an alternative to AirTag. Seinoxn wallet finder is compatible with both iOS and Android systems, offering a flexible option for users across different devices. This can be a practical alternative, especially for households or businesses that use a mix of Apple and Android products.
What to Do If You Find an AirTag
If you find an AirTag that isn’t yours, take action. Here's what you should do next:
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Disable It: Once you’ve found the AirTag, you can stop its tracking. To do this, tap the notification on your phone, which will guide you through disabling it.
- Report It: If you feel that someone has placed the AirTag without permission, it's a good idea to report the incident to the authorities for safety.
In Conclusion
Whether you're an iPhone or Android user, finding an AirTag on your car is easier than you might expect. Apple has built-in alerts for iPhone users, while Android users can rely on the official Tracker Detect app. Ensuring your Bluetooth and Location services are always on is key. If you suspect someone is tracking you, these simple steps will help you take control.
Don't forget to check and clean your car regularly, especially in hidden areas where AirTags can be placed. Still, have other questions? Join the fan group below to express your doubts.
