What to Do When You Receive an Unknown Tracker Alert on Android

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When a Bluetooth tracking device is separated from its owner, it begins sending "unknown tracker alerts" to nearby smartphones. These alerts can help you find and return strangers' belongings, though they can also help you protect yourself from stalking.

For reference, your Android smartphone can detect trackers from all major brands. It doesn't matter if the tracker is made for iPhone or Android, you'll still receive an alert.

Tracker Alerts Are Enabled by Default

Android smartphones will alert you when a tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag or Chipolo ONE Point, has been separated from its owner and is traveling with you. This is a default setting, though you can manually scan for trackers by opening "Settings," tapping "Safety & emergency," navigating to "Unknown tracker alerts," and selecting "Scan now."

In most cases, an unknown tracker alert isn't a cause for alarm. You may receive these alerts when a friend leaves their bag in your home, or when you borrow a family member's car keys. A neighbor's AirPods could even trigger an unknown tracker alert, under some circumstances. Unfortunately, Bluetooth tracking devices can be used to stalk people, so it's important to pay attention to any unknown tracker alert you receive.

Note that unknown tracker alerts can be disabled. Open "Settings," tap "Safety & emergency," go to "Unknown tracker alerts," and toggle the "Allow alerts" button. Repeating this process will re-enable unknown tracker alerts.

Use Your Phone to Locate the Tracker

When you receive an unknown tracker alert, click it. You'll see some information about the tracker, including the name of its manufacturer and a map that shows where it has traveled with you. Take a screenshot, as you may lose access to the tracker's details at some point. (If you accidentally dismissed the tracker notification, enter "Settings," go to "Safety & Emergency," and open "Unknown tracker alerts" for past alerts.)

While viewing the tracker's information,