Google is rolling out two new updates to its Unknown Tracker Alert feature, making it easier for Android device owners to detect unfamiliar trackers. The company announced On Wednesday. started in July 2023The security feature automatically sends notifications if any unwanted Bluetooth trackers are traveling with you.
The first update lets Android phone owners temporarily stop sending location updates over the Find My Device network when an unknown compatible tracker is detected. Google will pause these updates for 24 hours, so your location will no longer be visible to people who may be monitoring your location through tags.
Second, anyone who receives an unknown tracker alert will be able to locate the unwanted Find My Device-compatible tracker by using the “Find Nearby” feature. Once you find it, Google will also provide instructions on physically disabling the tag.
Over the past few years, Bluetooth trackers have been growing rapidly misusedomestic abusers and stalkers For example, it is used to track victims a class action lawsuit Claiming that AirTag stalking has contributed to “numerous murders”. In response, Apple and Google have made several efforts to combat stalking, including an announcement earlier this year Help Thanks to a new industry specification, Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers, which works on both iOS and Android.