Tech security 101: How to spot a hidden tracker on your car

"Kim, this doesn't impact me." I wish that was true. Maybe you have an ex or friend who won't buzz off, or maybe you met a stranger at a bar or store who was acting creepy. You're at risk. Did you drive across the U.S. border? Yep, crooks are targeting tourists, too.

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The clock is ticking

An AirTag starts beeping only after 24 hours away from its owner. That gives the stalker plenty of time to reach you, especially if they're local. If a carjacker tags your ride, they could learn your routine and follow you home before you even know what's going on.

The rumor mill says Apple's AirTags 2, coming later this year, will have antistalking tech. With the most current AirTags, tech-savvy stalkers can rip out the built-in speaker so you won't get alert, but the new ones should make it harder.

For now, you need to do everything you can to stay safe.

On your iPhone, make sure a few settings are enabled:

The alerts aren't foolproof

It's not just ripping out the speakers. Older tracking devices might not set off an alert, and savvy creeps can reconfigure new trackers to follow you undetected for months. 

That's why it's important to check your car now and then, even if you don't hear that telltale beep. First, grab a flashlight and a mirror.

'I found a tracker. What now?'

Don't smash it or disable it. You want to give the police all the info they need to catch whoever planted it. 

Now, make an aluminum foil envelope. Wrap the tracker inside, making sure there are no gaps or holes. This will block any signals, so the person who installed it will just think it's out of range. Take the foil-wrapped tracker to a police station. They'll know how to pin down who put it there.

I've heard too many stories from stalking victims. I don't want you or a loved one to be another. Share this with folks in your life.

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