The New York Police Department (NYPD) is attempting to cut down on car theft in the city by giving away 500 free Apple AirTag trackers to be placed inside vehicles.
The NYPD tweeted over the weekend, saying “the 21st-century calls for 21st-century policing,” and that by placing an AirTag in a vehicle, owners will help officers recover a car if it is stolen. A video posted with the tweet tells car owners to get an AirTag and install it in a hidden location in the vehicle where it can’t easily be found.
The video then demonstrates a car theft where the owner uses the Find My app to track the car, with the tracking information relayed to the police. Officers find the car thanks to the AirTag and are able to recover the vehicle and arrest the thief.
The 21st century calls for 21st century policing. AirTags in your car will help us recover your vehicle if it’s stolen. We’ll use our drones, our StarChase technology & good old fashion police work to safely recover your stolen car. Help us help you, get an AirTag. #GSD pic.twitter.com/fTfk8p4lye
— NYPD Chief of Department (@NYPDChiefOfDept) April 30, 2023
The NYPD says it’ll use “our drones, our StarChase technology, and good old-fashioned police work” to safely recover the stolen vehicle. “Safeguard your car by simply putting an Apple AirTag inside of it,” says an NYPD tagline at the end of the video.
The AirTag initiative comes after an uptick in thefts across the United States caused by a viral TikTok car theft video that demonstrates how to get into Hyundai and Kia vehicles via an easily accessible exploit.
In an accompanying press conference on Sunday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced that New York City will provide 500 free AirTags to vehicle owners. As reported by CBS News, the AirTags are available to residents in Castle Hill, Soundview, and Parkchester, as these areas have experienced a 548% increase in stolen Hyundai and Kia vehicles.
