tile s lack of encryption could make Security researchers have identified a significant vulnerability in Tile trackers that could potentially enable stalkers to track victims using their own devices, raising serious concerns about privacy and safety.
tile s lack of encryption could make
Understanding the Vulnerability
Recent research highlighted by Wired has brought to light critical flaws in Tile’s anti-theft mode, which is designed to make trackers “invisible” on the Tile network. This feature, while intended to protect users from theft, inadvertently undermines measures meant to prevent stalking. According to the findings, malicious actors could intercept unencrypted data transmitted from Tile tags, including unique IDs and MAC addresses, allowing them to track individuals through Bluetooth devices or antennas.
The Role of Bluetooth Technology
Tile trackers function by attaching to personal items like keyrings, wallets, or purses. These devices communicate with a network of nearby smartphones, which relay the tracker’s location, MAC address, and unique ID to Tile’s database. This system is similar to those used by competitors such as Apple’s AirTags and Samsung’s SmartTags, which also utilize nearby devices to pinpoint the location of lost items. Google’s Find My Device network supports third-party trackers from brands like Chipolo, Pebblebee, and Motorola, all operating under similar principles.
Research Findings
The research conducted by Akshaya Kumar, Anna Raymaker, and Michael Specter from the Georgia Institute of Technology involved reverse-engineering the Tile app. Their analysis revealed that while other companies rotate their tags’ unique IDs and MAC addresses to enhance security, Tile only changes the unique ID. This design choice allows an attacker to link a MAC address to a specific tag, making it easier to track individuals over time. Kumar explains, “An attacker only needs to record one message from the device … to fingerprint it for the rest of its lifetime.”
Implications for User Safety
The implications of these findings are alarming. The ability to track someone without their consent poses a direct threat to personal safety. Eva Galperin, the director of cybersecurity at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), has long expressed concerns about the risks associated with Bluetooth-enabled trackers. “Tile has, historically, been a bad actor in this space in the sense that they have known about all of these problems with their design choices,” she states. This sentiment underscores the urgency for companies to prioritize user safety in their product designs.
Industry Standards and Best Practices
Galperin emphasizes the importance of establishing industry standards to mitigate these risks. The EFF has been actively working on the Detection of Unwanted Location Trackers standard, which has been adopted by major tech companies like Google and Apple. “We have been trying to put together a set of standards that every maker of Bluetooth-enabled trackers should implement, which includes a bunch of best practices,” she explains. One of these best practices is the frequent rotation of MAC addresses and the necessity of encrypting information rather than transmitting it in plain text.
Challenges with Tile’s Features
Wired also reports that Tile’s “Scan and Secure” feature, designed to help users detect unwanted Tile trackers in their vicinity, can be easily circumvented by stalkers. The anti-theft mode, which hides a tracker from the Tile network, is intended to prevent theft but can also shield malicious actors from detection. To activate this feature, users must provide a photo ID and agree to pay a $1 million fine if convicted of misuse. However, as Galperin points out, “the stalker has to be caught, and they [Tile] have just provided the technology to make sure that wouldn’t happen.”
Tile’s Response
In response to these concerns, Kristi Collura, a spokesperson for Tile’s parent company Life360, stated that the company has made several improvements since the researchers alerted them to the issue in November. “Using a Tile to track someone’s location without their knowledge is never okay and is against our terms of service,” Collura emphasized. Life360 has been proactive in addressing security vulnerabilities, participating in the HackerOne program, which allows ethical hackers and security researchers to responsibly disclose potential issues.
Life360’s Commitment to Safety
Collura further elaborated on Life360’s commitment to user safety, stating, “Life360 takes the privacy and safety of our members and products very seriously. It’s why we participate in the HackerOne program (alongside thousands of tech companies), which allows ethical hackers and security researchers to responsibly disclose potential issues so we can review, address, and, where appropriate, implement changes.” The company aims to prioritize features that enhance family safety and connectivity as it integrates Tile into its broader platform.
Broader Context of Tracker Safety
The concerns surrounding Tile’s vulnerabilities are part of a larger conversation about the safety of Bluetooth-enabled tracking devices. As these technologies become increasingly popular for locating lost items, the potential for misuse grows. The rise of such devices has prompted discussions among lawmakers, privacy advocates, and technology companies about the need for regulations and standards to protect users from stalking and harassment.
Legislative Actions and Public Awareness
In recent years, there have been calls for legislation aimed at regulating the use of tracking devices. Some lawmakers have proposed bills that would require companies to implement safety measures, such as notifying users when a tracking device is nearby. Public awareness campaigns have also emerged, educating consumers about the risks associated with Bluetooth trackers and encouraging them to take precautions.
Conclusion
As the use of Bluetooth trackers continues to grow, the vulnerabilities identified in Tile’s technology serve as a critical reminder of the need for robust security measures. Companies must prioritize user safety by adopting best practices and adhering to industry standards. The ongoing dialogue among researchers, advocates, and lawmakers is essential to ensure that technology serves to enhance safety rather than compromise it. The situation with Tile underscores the importance of vigilance in the tech industry, where the balance between innovation and user safety must be carefully managed.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: September 30, 2025 at 3:39 am
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