Security News > 2023 > May > Tracked by hidden tags? Apple and Google unite to propose safety and security standards…

To be fair to Apple, the company has introduced various tricks and techniques to make AirTags harder for stalkers and criminals to exploit, given how given how easily the devices can be hidden in luggage, stuffed into the upholstery of a car, or squeezed into the gap under a bicycle saddle.

With lots of similar devices already on the market, and Google said to be working on a product of its own to take advantage of the zillions of Bluetooth-enabled phones that are out and about running Google Android.

Surely there should be safety and security standards that are encouraged, or perhaps even demanded and expected, throughout the "Smart tag" market?

You can try measuring some of your own portable electronic devices; you might be pleasantly surprised how chunky and apparently obvious a product can be, and yet still be considered small and "Easily concealed" by the specifications.

As you can see, these devices present two very different security risks: one where the tag shouldn't bleat about itself when it's with you and is supposed to be there; and the other where the tag needs to bleat about itself because it's sticking with you suspiciously even though it's not yours.

If you're interested in mobile device security; if you're into privacy; if you're worried about how tracking devices could be abused.

News URL

https://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2023/05/03/tracked-by-hidden-tags-apple-and-google-unite-to-propose-safety-and-security-standards/