I am Apple addicted
This time I think they got it wrong, for now at least.
As a self taught budding geek, I am fascinated with technology. Although I speak English, not geek, I try to get to grips with it all.
Things move so fast, though, right?
I never got taught this stuff at school. Computers weren’t a thing when I was young, yes I’m that old!
I’m not making excuses. Far from it. Never, ever use age as an excuse for anything!
I’m stepping up, keen to learn. Embracing my inner geek, but by doing so I’m doing it with eyes open. The world of tech is genius, mysterious, logical but not perfect. Maybe I’m naïve, but as an outsider I see gaps, and want it to be better in some areas. This is one.
I’m Not Criticising Apple, Alone
I never wanted an Apple product. I fight vehemently against being a stereotype. That best seller tag puts me off, I rebel against it.
Silent stubborn rebellion is in my nature. After all, it’s often hype, overpriced products, and a waste of money.
Or so I told myself. I would never succumb to the temptation sold by big corporations, wouldn’t get drawn into Sky TV, Amazon Prime or an Apple product, until I was.
Apple are Good At What They Do
Apple has long-addicted dedicated fans and customers for a good reason. I’m now Apple first. Their stuff works. It does what you need, quickly.
They know their business, not just the marketing, the tech works. I don’t need to sell you their products, design, reliability and security will do that. Won’t it?
They’re perfect tech with a great record on personal security, right?
Did Apple Get it Wrong This Time?
They aren’t perfect and I think they need to tackle the elephant in their security room. Airtags.
Apple’s Claim… AirTag is a super-easy way to keep track of your stuff. Attach one to your keys, slip another in your backpack. And just like that, they’re on your radar in the Find My app, where you can also track down your Apple devices and keep up with friends and family.
Great! What’s the problem?
OK, just imagine for a moment, you have malicious intent. You buy a tag, you ‘plant’ it on someone, and hey presto, you can find them anywhere.
Terrifying. It’s happening too frequently already.
As the person being tracked, remember the tag is not yours. You are in the dark who owns it, that it even exists.
The Device ‘Tells’ You it’s There
BBC reported: Apple says AirTags will make a beeping sound between 8-24 hours after a device is detected moving with an unregistered phone. But it’s easy to register an AirTag, and then disable it.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-60004257
It’s Not Apple’s Problem
Of course, Apple isn’t the only brand who has tracking devices, but security benefits enhanced their reputation. They need to fix this gap in their defence arsenal.
‘I’m not on Apple, so I don’t care.’
Sorry, but you should. They can track you just as easily. Android users can download an app that notifies them about the tracker, but how many users know that?
Would it even enter your head to install an app relating to a competitor’s devices?
Should personal safety be the responsibility of the victim of potential stalking?
Is it too late to fix it?
As a totally new and admitted amateur, I suggest one initial step. Make it a requirement that you have to give permission to the tag owner to track you. Just like you do with the find-my-phone option?
What methods do you suggest to make these, ever more popular, devices safer for users and those being tracked without their knowledge?
When Are Tracking Tags A Good Idea?
There are practical applications for tags.
- That dog collar on a hound that loves to wander.
- A suitcase on that holiday.
- A child’s backpack, but with caution and consider all the risks of that one.
Think Someone is Tracing You?
Please be safe. There are ways to manage this, but they are not perfect.
- Inform the authorities if you feel at risk.
- Talk to Apple.
- Take notes of what is happening, keep a record and ask for help from domestic violence help groups in your area.
- Do not suffer in silence.
Do you agree it’s time for Apple to fix this damaging gap in their promises on personal security?
I’d love to know if you think they are the best thing since sliced bread, or the worse thing anyone ever invented. Or maybe somewhere in between.
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