Stolen vehicle tracking: a covert tool for criminals exploiting GPS technology
In the picturesque Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, a worrying trend has emerged in vehicle thefts. Over the past year, nearly 900 GPS beacons, often used for tracking and monitoring purposes, have been discovered, suggesting a significant increase in their use by car thieves.
These trackers, typically employed for finding lost items, are now being exploited for a more sinister purpose. Small, coin-sized devices that can be purchased for a few tens of euros, they allow thieves to operate more discreetly and effectively.
The modus operandi is simple yet alarming. Criminals attach the GPS tracker to a vehicle, often near the wheel or under the hood, without the owner's knowledge. They then use the real-time tracking provided by the device to locate and steal the targeted vehicles.
Criminals prefer to operate in public places to minimize the risk of being caught or wasting time. On CCTV footage, a thief was observed using a smartphone to locate a vehicle equipped with a GPS tracker.
However, there is a silver lining. An AirTag, a type of GPS beacon, can be detected by iPhones and will alert the user if an unlinked AirTag is near them. If an iPhone user receives the message: "An AirTag not linked to your account is near you. Are you sure you're not being followed?", it could be a sign that their vehicle is being tracked.
To prevent such incidents, regular vehicle inspections are recommended, especially for models frequently targeted by thieves. Regular inspections can help identify the presence of GPS trackers and potentially prevent theft.
Recently, police dismantled a trafficking operation involving several hundred cars near Marseille, arresting seven individuals. This operation underscores the growing threat posed by GPS trackers in car thefts and the importance of vigilance among car owners.
As a cybersecurity expert, Benoît Grunenwald from Eset France, explains that an AirTag will emit a signal picked up by an iPhone. He advises car owners to be aware of this feature and to check their surroundings regularly for any suspicious devices.
In conclusion, the use of GPS trackers in car thefts is a growing concern in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. By staying informed and vigilant, car owners can help protect themselves from becoming victims of this insidious trend.
