Tile takes on tag stalking problem by doing the opposite of Apple’s AirTag
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Bluetooth tracker company Tile is launching a new security measure that it promises will effectively make its devices invisible to stalkers, thieves and other bad actors.
Called Anti-Theft Mode (opens in new tab), it works by making the company’s trackers “undetectable by Scan and Secure,” a feature on Tile’s own app that allows iOS and Android users to “detect nearby tiles.” With this new mode, the tile owner is the only person who knows where their device is at all times.
Scan and Secure was originally intended to help people find lost or misplaced items. But then people started abuse other Bluetooth trackers, such as Apple AirTags, to stalk people. So Tile created the feature in response to the abuse and a recent rise in robberies. The idea behind the latter is that you can more easily “recover stolen valuables by making it harder for thieves to know an item is being tracked,” according to the announcement.
Anti-theft mode is rolling out today and will be available to all users in the coming weeks. However, to use the feature you have to go through a rather rigorous verification process.
Aggressive approach
Before activating anti-theft mode, Tile asks users to register a government-issued ID on their account and submit a biometric scan to confirm their identity. Users will also have to accept the new terms of service, which will allow the company to give their information to authorities if they are caught abusing the trackers for stalking. This is done at Tile’s discretion, as it helps with ongoing investigations, all without a subpoena. In addition, the company states it will fine people convicted of using its trackers to stalk people $1 million.
Tile takes a pretty aggressive approach to make sure no one misuses its trackers for nefarious means. The company states that it “takes a very collaborative stance with law enforcement” and takes these proactive measures as a way to deter bad actors. It even draws criticism Apple’s recent anti-stalking update for its AirTags by calling it “insufficient for victim protection”. For those who don’t know, iPhones will send a notification to tell users if an unknown AirTag has been detected on their person. The AirTag will also start making a loud noise so you can find it.
Doubtful
We have a lot of questions about anti-theft mode.
If TechCrunch points out (opens in new tab), Tile’s “highly cooperative” position with authorities is rather questionable. It is not known whether the company will fully adhere to due process. After all, it is willing to hand over user information to the police without a subpoena or even a court order. And how can it fine a convicted person $1 million, and why that amount? We assume this is some kind of lawsuit and not a literal fine from the government.
It’s understandable why Tile would want to protect its user base, but charging people $1 million for violating the terms of service is a bit extreme. We’ve reached out to a company representative for clarification on these two questions and more. This story will be updated at a later date if we hear anything.
If you’re looking for cybersecurity services with a less aggressive approach, be sure to check out TechRadar’s list of the best privacy tools for 2023.