Full Breakdown
Surge in Stalking Cases Linked to GPS Trackers and Apple AirTags
2/22/2026, 9:22:12 PM
Alarming Rise in Tech-Facilitated Stalking
Recent reports indicate a significant increase in stalking cases involving GPS trackers and Apple AirTags, with a staggering 896 percent rise in incidents reported in England and Wales since 2018. Data obtained through freedom of information requests revealed that stalking reports surged from 57 cases in 2018 to 568 by the end of 2024. Cases of coercive control using these devices saw an even more dramatic increase of 1,034 percent, escalating from 38 to 431 cases during the same period. This alarming trend has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, as survivors report heightened levels of harassment and abuse.
Victims' Experiences and Challenges
Victims like Nicola, whose name has been changed for anonymity, have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences. After ending an abusive relationship, Nicola found herself relentlessly stalked by her ex-partner, who tracked her movements using hidden devices. Despite reporting her situation to the police multiple times and applying for a non-molestation order, she felt her concerns were not taken seriously. The psychological toll has been severe, leading her to attempt suicide three times and engage in self-harm.
Emma Pickering, head of tech and economic abuse at the domestic abuse charity Refuge, noted that the rise in tech-facilitated abuse has been ongoing, with perpetrators increasingly utilizing spyware and tracking devices. She emphasized that many victims are unaware of the extent of surveillance they face, often discovering spyware only after seeking help.
Law Enforcement and Regulatory Responses
Deputy Chief Constable Sarah Poolman, the national policing lead for stalking and harassment, acknowledged the complexities of stalking crimes, particularly those exacerbated by technology. She stated that police training has been updated to include cyberstalking and the importance of preserving digital evidence. However, she admitted that there is still much work to be done to ensure consistent responses across police forces.
Despite some advancements, victims report a lack of adequate support from law enforcement. Charlotte Hopper from The Cyber Helpline highlighted instances where police have shown apathy towards online stalking, often failing to recognize the severity of the situation. In some cases, victims have been advised to dispose of tracking devices without considering the potential for escalation in the stalker's behavior.
Criticism of Technology Companies
Critics argue that technology companies, including Apple, have not done enough to prevent their products from being misused for stalking. Saskia Garner from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust called for a "safety-by-design" approach, emphasizing the need for better regulation of tracking technologies. While Apple has implemented safety features to alert users of unknown AirTags, victims have reported finding devices hidden in their belongings, indicating that more proactive measures are necessary.
Conclusion: The Need for Comprehensive Solutions
The rise in stalking facilitated by GPS trackers and Apple AirTags underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions, including better training for law enforcement, increased awareness of tech-facilitated abuse, and stricter regulations on tracking technologies. As victims continue to face significant challenges in seeking help and protection, it is crucial for authorities and technology companies to collaborate in addressing this growing crisis.
