How to utilise anti-stalking features on Android, similar to Apple AirTag

Apple AirTag is known for its alert system, which is useful for tracking items during travel.

People use it to keep tabs on their belongings and get updates on their locations.

This feature is somewhat similar to tracking people and devices.

Google has now entered this field as well. During the Google I/O event in 2023, the company announced a similar feature.

If your Android device detects an unknown Bluetooth tracker nearby while your Bluetooth is on, you will receive an alert and notification on your smartphone.

When you tap the notification, you can learn more about the tracker and view a map of its movements while it was near you.

Google also allows you to play a sound from the tracker, helping you locate it discreetly without the owner's knowledge.

Once you receive the notification, you can take appropriate action based on the information provided.

For example, some Bluetooth trackers may share their serial number or partial information about their owner, like the last four digits of their phone number.

This can help you determine if the tracker is being used for stalking or if it was accidentally left behind.

To use this feature, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings on your Android device.
2. Click on Safety & Emergency.
3. Look for Unknown Tracker Alerts and tap the 'Scan Now' button.
4. The manual scan takes about 10 to 20 seconds, and then you'll see a list of nearby trackers separated from their owner's device.
5. Tap on a listed tracker to get tips on what to do next.

This feature is available for Android devices running Android 6.0 and later versions.