Stalkers Exploit AirTags and GPS Trackers in Alarming Rise of Cyber Harassment
Apple AirTags and GPS tracking devices are being weaponised by stalkers, fuelling a disturbing surge in cases that leaves victims fearing for their lives. Abusers are using these coin-sized devices, available for as little as £35, alongside parental control apps to monitor ex-partners' locations and movements. Many survivors have been compelled to flee their homes, change employment, or seek refuge in safe houses to evade detection.
Skyrocketing Cases Since the Pandemic
Campaigners warn that this issue has escalated dramatically since the Covid-19 pandemic, with some police forces failing to take victims' concerns seriously. An increasing number of victims have experienced severe mental health crises, leading to hospitalisation under mental health sections. Freedom of information data from police forces in England and Wales, obtained by The Independent, reveals a shocking 896 per cent increase in stalking reports involving AirTags and GPS trackers, rising from 57 cases in 2018 to 568 by the end of 2024.
In coercive control cases, this number surged from 38 to 431 during the same period – a 1,034 per cent increase. However, the true figure is likely far higher, as only 18 of 44 forces responded to the information request. Charities caution that survivors face a postcode lottery in responses from frontline officers, with inconsistent support across regions.
Personal Stories of Harassment and Inadequate Police Response
Nicola's ordeal began 18 months ago after leaving an abusive, short-lived relationship. Within weeks, her ex-partner knew her every movement, appearing outside her workplace, at social events, and near her home during exercise routines. Despite obtaining a non-molestation court order and making 35 police reports, Nicola claims authorities failed to address her concerns adequately. This neglect led to three suicide attempts and multiple self-harm incidents since the stalking intensified in October 2024.
The stalking was only uncovered when a mobile phone repair shop discovered the spyware programme Mspy on her device, granting her ex-partner access to all her apps, GPS location, and messages. Nicola expressed her terror: "I'm constantly on alert, I sit with my back to the wall, I've changed my routines, and I'm scared of going out. I've never been so scared in my life – I've changed phones, jobs and I'll contact venues in advance to let them know I've been stalked."
Technology Companies and Safety Concerns
Emma Pickering, head of tech and economic abuse at the domestic abuse charity Refuge, noted that tracking and hidden surveillance have risen for a really long time due to expanding technological options. She highlighted the proliferation of tools like GPS-enabled car systems, hidden AirTags, Find my iPhone, and ring doorbell cameras, stating: "It is disturbing. One of the biggest challenges is that we don't know what will develop next."
Refuge first observed an increase in stalkerware downloads during Covid lockdowns, and the issue has persisted, with tech-based abuse now present in all their cases. While Apple has implemented safety features like alerts for unknown AirTags, victims continue to find devices hidden in vehicles, clothing pockets, and even children's backpacks.
Calls for Improved Regulation and Police Training
Saskia Garner of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust criticised technology companies for insufficient action, advocating a safety-by-design approach. She pointed out that adjustments often come too late, after complaints are made, and highlighted the existence of tracking technologies marketed directly to stalkers. Garner emphasised: "There is a proliferation of places unashamedly advertising that they assist stalking. They are designed not to be found by stalking victims and solely benefit the perpetrators. There needs to be more regulation around this."
In another case, Sasha's ex-partner stalked her by analysing geolocation data embedded in her photos, leading to threats and her eventual relocation. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust's 2022 super-complaint raised concerns about police failures to recognise cyber stalking's impact and gather evidence adequately.
Charlotte Hopper of The Cyber Helpline noted apathy towards online crime within police forces, with victims sometimes advised to discard tracking devices without considering potential escalation. She warned: "When stalking is by its nature obsessive and repetitive, you take that control away and we start to see escalations, unfortunately."
Progress and Ongoing Challenges in Policing
Deputy Chief Constable Sarah Poolman, the national policing lead for stalking and harassment, confirmed that officer training has been updated to include cyber stalking and digital evidence retrieval. However, she acknowledged the need for greater consistency across forces, stating: "Whilst forces have made progress to broaden understanding of stalking and better assess risk, there is more to do to ensure consistency across the country."
Apple has previously stated collaboration with safety groups and law enforcement to enhance AirTag safety warnings. As cyber stalking cases continue to rise, charities urge stronger regulatory measures and improved police responses to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
