Combatting Gun Theft in the United States: How Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers Can Help

Gun theft is a significant problem in the United States, posing serious risks to public safety. With hundreds of thousands of firearms stolen annually, stolen guns often end up in the hands of criminals, leading to increased violence and crime. As gun owners seek ways to protect their firearms, personal Bluetooth tracking devices like Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers are emerging as innovative solutions to help reduce gun theft and enhance security.

The Scope of Gun Theft in the United States

According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), over 238,000 firearms were reported stolen or lost in the United States in 2019 alone. The actual number may be even higher due to underreporting. Stolen firearms frequently end up in the hands of individuals who use them for criminal activities, posing a threat to communities nationwide.

How Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers Can Help

Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers are small, easy-to-use Bluetooth tracking devices that can be attached to various personal items, including firearms. These devices offer several features that can help gun owners track and recover stolen firearms:

• Real-Time Location Tracking

Both Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers use Bluetooth technology to provide real-time location tracking. When attached to a firearm, these devices allow owners to locate their gun using their smartphone. Apple AirTags leverage the extensive network of Apple devices to provide accurate location data, while Tile Stickers use the Tile community network for tracking.

• Precision Finding

Apple AirTags feature Precision Finding, which uses the iPhone’s Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology to provide precise distance and direction information. This feature is particularly useful when trying to locate a firearm within a specific area, such as a home or vehicle.

• Lost Mode and Notifications

Both devices offer a “Lost Mode” that can be activated if a firearm goes missing. When in Lost Mode, the device will send notifications to the owner’s phone if it comes into contact with another Bluetooth-enabled device within the respective networks. This increases the chances of recovering the stolen firearm.

• Community Search

Tile Stickers have a community search feature that leverages the network of Tile users. If a Tile-attached firearm is lost or stolen, other Tile users can help locate it anonymously. This feature expands the search area and improves the likelihood of recovery.

• Anti-Theft and Anti-Stalking Measures

While both Apple and Tile prioritize user privacy and security, they also incorporate anti-theft measures to protect personal items. For example, AirTags will notify nearby iPhones if an unknown AirTag is traveling with them, deterring potential thieves. Tile has a similar feature called "Smart Alerts" to notify users if their Tile is detected moving away from them.

Practical Considerations

When using Apple AirTags or Tile Stickers for tracking firearms, it’s essential to consider the following:

• Discreet Placement: Ensure the tracking device is securely and discreetly attached to the firearm to avoid detection by potential thieves.
• Battery Life: Regularly check the battery life of the tracking device to ensure it remains functional.
• Legal Compliance: Be aware of any local laws or regulations regarding the use of tracking devices on firearms.

Data Protection

But wait, does Apple or Tile have the ability to track my firearms? The answer is NO. 

Apple AirTags and Tile do not have the capability to identify or know what item they are attached to. AirTags and Tile Trackers are designed to provide location information through Bluetooth connectivity and the Find My or Tile network, but they do not store or process information about the specific object they are tracking. The user assigns a name and category to the AirTag or Tile  in the app, which helps them identify the tracked item, but this information is not known or processed by the AirTag or Tile itself. The device operates solely as a location-tracking tool without any awareness of the nature of the tracked item.

Conclusion

Gun theft is a critical issue that requires innovative solutions to enhance firearm security and public safety. By leveraging personal Bluetooth tracking devices like Apple AirTags and Tile Stickers, gun owners can take proactive steps to protect their firearms and aid in their recovery if stolen. These technologies offer a promising avenue for reducing gun theft and promoting responsible gun ownership in the United States.

Sources

- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Apple AirTags and Tile Sticker product information