Apple AirTags can be a great way to outsmart car thieves, but there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. That is an important limitation thieves who also have iPhones can usually detect a hidden AirTag in vehicles they are trying to steal. This makes hiding an AirTag difficult.
That’s why we were intrigued by Brian’s question about using other ways to make Apple AirTags untraceable to car thieves or outsmart them twice.
“If an AirTag is put into an RFID wallet and hidden in a car, can the AirTag be located by a thief using a locator? I know the AirTag will function in the wallet, but will it be undetectable for the thief?“ – Brian, LaSalle, Illinois
Below are reasons why using an RFID wallet can make you outsmarted.
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Illustration of a car thief checking if the vehicle has an AirTag. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Why might RFID wallets not outsmart car thieves?
Some thieves use RFID readers, which use radio waves, to scan and read data such as credit cards in wallets. The function of RFID wallets and bags is to protect items or devices of these radio waves by blocking them.
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Apple Air Tags use a different technology, so even if placed in an RFID blocking wallet or bag, it can still be detected by a thief with an iPhone or locator. Unlike the radio waves used to scan for credit cards and other data, Apple AirTags use Bluetooth and Ultra Wideband Technology (UWB).. Neither technology can be protected by RFID blocking materials because these materials cannot block Bluetooth and UWB signals.
A person holding an RFID wallet. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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What can AirTag technology block?
Faraday bags, on the other hand, they use electromagnetic shielding and can successfully prevent Apple AirTag signals, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals, from being detected by thieves. The only problem with putting an Apple AirTag in a Faraday bag in your car is that if the car thief can’t read or locate the signal it’s sending out, neither can you.
While the Apple Air Tag can go unnoticed in a Faraday bag, you probably won’t be able to use FindMy or other tracking methods to locate it either, as these methods require signals from the AirTag to other iPhones and Apple devices to track its location.
An RFID wallet. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Alternatives to AirTags for car security
While Apple Air Tags offer some benefits, but there are other technologies and methods you can consider to improve car safety. For example, GPS trackers provide real-time location data without the risk of being detected by a nearby iPhone. Additionally, physical deterrents such as steering locks and alarm systems can act as effective security. By combining multiple layers of security, you can better protect your vehicle against theft. See how you can prevent your car from being stolen.
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Kurt’s most important insights
While Apple Air Tags can be a useful device to help you keep an eye on your vehicle, whether it is lost or stolen. It does not replace the reliability of a GPS system installed in your vehicle when trying to outsmart car thieves. Since car thieves may be able to locate an Apple AirTag hidden in your car, it may not provide the layer of protection you’re hoping for. While the technology in RFID wallets does not block the signals from an Apple AirTag, making them detectable by locators and scanners, Faraday bags do. Unfortunately, you’ll be outsmarting yourself by outwitting car thieves if you use a Faraday bag, as you won’t be able to track the Apple AirTags either. If you’re looking for the optimal way to outsmart car thieves, Apple AirTags may not be the answer you’re looking for.
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