New York City Mayor and Police Department Encourage Residents to Use Apple AirTags to Combat Vehicle Theft
The New York City Mayor Eric Adams and his police department have urged residents of the city to help fight vehicle theft by placing Apple AirTags in their cars. The circular tracking devices allow users to monitor the location of their belongings through the “Find My” app on their iPhones, making it easier for them and law enforcement officials to track down stolen vehicles.
What are AirTags?
AirTags are small, circular tracking devices that use Bluetooth technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices. They can be attached or placed inside items such as bags, keys or wallets so that they can be easily located if lost. Users can also set up notifications for when an item moves out of range or is detected by another device.
How Can AirTags Help Combat Vehicle Theft?
If a car is stolen with an AirTag inside, residents will be able to track its location and work with police officers using drones, StarChase technology, and traditional policing methods like good old-fashioned detective work in order to recover it safely. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who may try selling stolen cars quickly before being caught.
Kia, Hyundai & Honda Vehicles Particularly Vulnerable
In recent months there has been a trend circulating on TikTok which has led Kia, Hyundai and Honda vehicles becoming particularly vulnerable targets for thefts in New York City. In April 2022 press release from the mayor’s office stated that there had been an 890% increase in Kia thefts at the end of last year alone along with a 766% increase in Hyundai thefts during preceding months leading up until then.
NYPD Shares Video Demonstrating How To Use An AirTag To Protect Your Vehicle
The New York City Police Department shared a video on social media demonstrating how residents can use an AirTag to protect their vehicles. Jeffrey Maddrey, the chief of the department, wrote in a tweet that “21st century calls for 21st century policing.”
Free AirTags Distributed To Residents By Non-Profit Organization
Apple sells AirTags starting at $29, but a non-profit organization in New York has donated 500 of the devices to distribute to residents for free.
Mayor Adams: Using Technology To Fight Crime Is The Way Forward
New York City Mayor Eric Adams believes that using technology is key to fighting crime and protecting people and property. He said Sunday that AirTags are an “excellent” tracking device which he believes will help slow rates of car theft in the city.
Conclusion
The use of Apple’s AirTags could be an effective way for residents and law enforcement officials alike to combat vehicle thefts in New York City. With more individuals utilizing this technology it may become increasingly difficult for thieves who target specific makes or models of cars as they would have less opportunity to sell them before being caught.
