Tile adds feature to address malicious tracking

[Daniel Sims]

Why it matters: Tile is a find-my-device service that works similarly to Apple's AirTags, but is platform-agnostic and predates Apple's product by several years. However, Tile has started to add anti-stalking features only after stalking became a serious problem with AirTags.

This week, Tile announced a new feature that lets users of its app scan for unfamiliar Tile fobs or Tile-enabled products traveling near them. Essentially it works like one of the safety features in Apple's AirTags.

The new "Scan and Secure" feature can be used by anyone who has downloaded Tile's iOS or Android app and doesn't require a Tile account. Upon first downloading the app, the scan feature can be seen at the top right corner of the sign-in screen. Users who have already signed in can find it in the middle of the Settings screen, which they can reach by tapping the icon on the top right corner of the main screen.

After selecting Scan and Secure, users need to tap "Continue," follow the app's instructions, and then begin moving from their present location to determine if an unknown device is moving with them. The scan needs to run for 10 minutes without interruption to get the best results. A device's Bluetooth and location settings also must be enabled. If a user detects a suspicious fob or other device, Tile will work with law enforcement through a court order to identify its owner.

The company promises that this is only the first step in its efforts towards increased safety.

Permalink to story.

https://www.techspot.com/news/93827-tile-adds-feature-address-malicious-tracking.html

 

[psycros]

Everyone with two functional braincells knew this would be a problem. Everyone except the people making the products.

 

[yRaz]

Everyone with two functional braincells knew this would be a problem. Everyone except the people making the products.

To be fair, it isn't the products fault for being abused. However, I am going to blame this one on Apple just for fun because it seems the problem started with airtags. Another one of their "innovations"

 

[QuantumPhysics]

Who'd have ever thought someone would build a tracking device the mass public would be able to afford and utilize to try and stalk others or steal their car?

 

[Uncle Al]

I just hope the courts hold Apple as a "co-conspirator" in any court cases concerning this very thing. We are well past the time where big Tech should be help responsible for their screw-ups.....

 

[terzaerian]

People using Tile or Airtags to stalk people, document their locations and movements, and invade their privacy need to know that the right to do that belongs solely to Apple, Google, and state intelligence agencies!

 

[rrwards]

Incredible how fast most people jump to blame the tech companies making products that are used in nefarious ways, yet you almost never see this when it comes to firearm violence.

 

[Theinsanegamer]

Incredible how fast most people jump to blame the tech companies making products that are used in nefarious ways, yet you almost never see this when it comes to firearm violence.

That's fine Whataboutism. What about automobile companies, people never seem to blame them when people speed and die in accidents. Or booze companies when someone gets drunk and kills someone else.

 

[HyperPete]

That's fine Whataboutism. What about automobile companies, people never seem to blame them when people speed and die in accidents. Or booze companies when someone gets drunk and kills someone else.

Ok, let's subject all of the products to which Whataboutism referred, to initial paid "registration" with each state via a "title", then annual paid registration as well. (These funds can be used to help compensate for damages incurred that are not otherwise covered.) Require liability insurance(s), and assign a point system for misuse. Require change of address notifications too. Also, institute mandatory safety devices, and inspections to ensure they are operating properly each year.
THEN we can begin with that particular comparison.
--

As far as the tile and other tracking systems, aren't we forgetting about Google & Amazon, who have even duped people into paying for tracking devices in their homes, in their cars, and in their pockets?

Does nobody worry about that tracking information being used for nefarious purposes?