Criminals are increasingly exploiting Apple AirTag tracking devices to monitor and steal vehicles across Montreal and other parts of Canada. In light of these incidents, Canadian law enforcement agencies have warned drivers to stay vigilant, a warning highlighted by coverage from MacRumors that cites police advisories and public safety alerts. The situation underscores how a technology designed for safe convenience can be misused by offenders who want to discreetly follow a vehicle’s movements or establish control over it without immediate detection.
In recent cases, two drivers reported discovering an AirTag installed in their cars after returning from visits to Montreal. One of the witnesses, a man named Ethan, described how his iPhone alerted him that another person’s AirTag was accompanying him. He quickly used his iPhone to activate the AirTag’s audio feature, which helped him locate the device resting on his car’s front grille. This episode illustrates the practical steps a vehicle owner can take when confronted with an unknown tracker: activating the sound, retrieving the device, and reporting the incident to authorities for further investigation. The episode also serves as a reminder that trackers can be placed in ways that are not immediately visible, demanding a proactive approach from drivers who rely on location-based tech for daily navigation and safety.
Authorities warn that AirTags are being installed inside cars with the intent to monitor their movement for theft or even to facilitate transport of the vehicle overseas. There are concerning scenarios where trackers could be used to tag vehicles involved in illegal activities or to aid the distribution of contraband by drug networks. While these devices have legitimate uses for keeping track of personal belongings, the same technology can be repurposed by criminals to orchestrate more sophisticated crimes. The risk becomes more pronounced for drivers who occupy unfamiliar or remote areas, where a hidden AirTag could remain unnoticed for longer periods and complicate efforts to recover a stolen vehicle.
Experts note that the pattern of such incidents has evolved over time. Cyber analysts from regional security centers have observed a rise in reported detections of AirTags and similar trackers, with noticeable spikes occurring during certain months. This trend underscores the importance for car owners to periodically inspect vehicles for unfamiliar devices, especially after trips that involve lengthy drives or visits to areas where there is heightened risk. Routine checks can include a quick physical scan of the inside of the car, a review of connected devices, and using smartphone alerts that notify users when a foreign tracker is moving with them. In parallel, automakers and technology providers are increasingly emphasizing user education about how to recognize unauthorized tracking and what steps to take when suspicious activity is detected. By staying informed and practicing basic precaution, drivers can reduce the chances that a benign item becomes a tool for criminal activity in the parking lot or on the street.
Law enforcement agencies stress the importance of reporting any encounter with unknown trackers, as such reports contribute to a broader understanding of the scope and methods used by criminals. While the immediate response may involve locating the device and disabling its functionality, authorities also pursue follow-up investigations to identify how the device was placed, who placed it, and whether there was any collaboration with other illegal activities. The collaboration between police, cybersecurity professionals, and the public helps create safer driving environments and informs ongoing discussions about stronger device authentication, privacy safeguards, and consumer education. Drivers who want to protect themselves can adopt practical measures such as regularly scanning their vehicle for trackers, leveraging built-in smartphone features that detect nearby devices, and staying alert to unusual activity on their accounts or in their area. The joint effort of communities, law enforcement, and technology vendors is essential to curbing this troubling misuse while preserving the legitimate benefits of location-based tools for everyday life.