How to Detect if You're Being Tracked by Apple AirTags or Tile Trackers

Updated at: 09/06/2025

Worried someone might be tracking your movements using Apple AirTags or Tile trackers? This isn't paranoia; it's a legitimate concern. Unauthorized tracking can be a serious privacy violation. This article will guide you through simple steps to detect if an unknown AirTag or Tile is following you, explaining what to look for and how to disable any unwanted trackers. Learn how to protect your privacy and regain peace of mind.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Install Apple Tracker Detect App

    • Download and install the Tracker Detect app from the Google Play Store.
    • Open the Tracker Detect app and tap the blue scan button.
    • Grant the app permission to access Bluetooth.
    • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and allow the app to scan.
    Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and allow the app to scan. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and allow the app to scan. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and allow the app to scan. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and allow the app to scan.
    Install Apple Tracker Detect App

  2. Scan for Apple AirTags

    • Perform scans in multiple locations (home, workplace, car) to check for Apple AirTags.
    Perform scans in multiple locations (home, workplace, car) to check for Apple AirTags.
    Scan for Apple AirTags

  3. Install Tile App

    • Download the Tile app from the Google Play Store.
    Download the Tile app from the Google Play Store.
    Install Tile App

  4. Scan for Tile Trackers

    • Look for a scan button in the top right corner of the Tile app (or in settings if you have an account). This feature may be in a phased rollout, so it might not be immediately available.
    • Perform scans in multiple locations (home, workplace, car) to check for Tile trackers using the same method as with the Apple app. Allow a maximum of 10 uninterrupted minutes for the scan to complete.
    Perform scans in multiple locations (home, workplace, car) to check for Tile trackers using the same method as with the Apple app. Allow a maximum of 10 uninterrupted minutes for the scan to complete. Perform scans in multiple locations (home, workplace, car) to check for Tile trackers using the same method as with the Apple app. Allow a maximum of 10 uninterrupted minutes for the scan to complete.
    Scan for Tile Trackers
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Tips

  • Be proactive and check frequently for trackers.
  • Check the video description for direct links to the apps.
  • The Tile scan feature may take a week or two to become available to all users.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring unusual sounds

Reason: Many AirTags emit a faint beeping sound when separated from their owner for a period of time, but this sound can be easily missed or misinterpreted.
Solution: Pay close attention to any unfamiliar beeping noises near your belongings, especially if they are consistent or intermittent.

2. Not checking your Apple devices or Tile app regularly

Reason: Apple devices will notify you of an unknown AirTag travelling with you, and the Tile app displays the location of your Tiles. Ignoring these alerts delays detection.
Solution: Enable location services and notifications for both your Apple devices and Tile app, then check them periodically for unknown trackers.

3. Relying solely on the sound detection method

Reason: The sound from an AirTag or Tile may not be loud enough or may be blocked by objects, resulting in missed detection.
Solution: Combine sound detection with checking your Apple devices or Tile app and using a dedicated tracker detection app to maximize your chances of detection.