TikTok has once again found itself at the center of controversy, and this time around, it is not oriented toward dance challenges or viral trends, but for something far more dangerous. Several videos posted on its Shop platform have gone viral, promoting small GPS trackers, presenting them as a discreet and “undetectable” way to monitor people without their consent. The short videos are alarming not only because of what they imply, but also because of their massive reach, with one video alone generating 5 million views and helping push sales of over 100,000 units.
TikTok’s viral videos promote so-called undetectable GPS trackers, but Apple’s Find My protections reveal the truth behind misleading claims.
The trend raises serious questions about the safety, oversight, and responsibility of platforms in preventing the spread of tools that can be abused easily. The pitch was quite bold, as the creators claimed that these gadgets are nothing like AirTags, and instead, they boast of being silent and invisible. Anyone can use them by hiding them under car seats or sticking them to the undercarriage. The tracker has its own SIM card, but no Bluetooth or WiFi, which means that it can be used for tracking anytime, anywhere.
The trackers are misleadingly marketed, as despite touting them as undetectable, they are actually certified Find My accessories. This means that Apple’s built-in protections still apply, but the trackers do not trigger alerts or audible chimes on iPhones and even some Android devices when someone carries them without consent. Even the seller’s own customers appear to show the truth, as the tracker does not live up to their claims. There are a plethora of one-star reviews that suggest that the anti-Find My pitch is deceptive.
In all fairness, the tracker is downright illegal and unethical in many places, as tracking someone without consent can be a criminal offense and in this regard, Apple’s policy is quite clear: Find My accessories “should not be used to track people, and should not be used to track property that does not belong to you.” It is sad to see that these videos reduce this message to a mere sales pitch.
On the flip side, TikTok’s policy also prohibits content that promotes criminal activity, and despite the claims, these videos are still up. While some are being taken down after being flagged by media like 404 Media, dozens more remain live. We will keep you posted on the latest details, so be sure to keep an eye out for more updates.
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