AirTags Reimagined: A New Era of Covert Tracking?

Apple's AirTag technology has revolutionized the way we keep track of personal belongings, through a vast network of devices to locate lost items with remarkable precision. However, vulnerability researchers have found ways by which this infrastructure can be co-opted to track devices beyond Apple's intended scope, raising significant security and privacy concerns.

Understanding the AirTag Network

AirTags are small, coin-shaped devices designed to help users locate items like keys, wallets, or bags. They emit Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals that are detected by nearby Apple devices, which then relay the AirTag's location to the owner's iCloud account. This process is seamless and largely anonymous, relying on the extensive network of Apple devices globally.

I am an Apple Device!

A recent exploration into AirTag's infrastructure has demonstrated that it's possible to make non-Apple devices appear as AirTags, thereby integrating them into Apple's location-tracking network. This technique involves manipulating a device's BLE broadcasts to mimic those of an AirTag, effectively allowing the device to be tracked using Apple's "Find My" network without the need for direct internet connectivity.

The core of this method lies in crafting BLE advertisements that conform to the specifications expected by Apple devices. By doing so, these spoofed devices can be detected by nearby iPhones, which subsequently upload the location data to Apple's servers, making it accessible for tracking purposes.

The Technical Stuff

Implementing this exploit requires a deep understanding of BLE protocols and Apple's AirTag communication standards. The process involves:

• BLE Advertisement Crafting: Configuring the device to broadcast BLE signals that resemble those of an AirTag. This step is crucial for deceiving nearby Apple devices into recognizing the spoofed device as a legitimate AirTag.

  
  

• MAC Address Manipulation: AirTags use specific Organizationally Unique Identifiers (OUIs) in their MAC addresses. To convincingly mimic an AirTag, the device's MAC address must be altered to match these identifiers. This often involves computational techniques, such as using GPU clusters, to find a collision between the device's MAC address and a legitimate Apple OUI.

  
  

• Server Coordination: In some implementations, the spoofed device communicates with a server to obtain pre-computed keys or data necessary for the BLE broadcasts. This coordination ensures that the device consistently emits signals that are recognized by Apple's network.

Once all this is done, the code can actually be run in the context of standard user privileges, technically making it possible for any common user space software to become a covert tracking component. 

Wider Security Implications

The ability to integrate arbitrary devices into Apple's tracking network without authorization clearly poses numerous security risks, from unauthorised tracking, stalking and harassment to more organized activities such as industrial espionage. The possibilities are endless. 

Sure, Apple has already released updates to address the vulnerability, but we all know there will continue to be plenty of devices that will be affected for some time to come. 

Let's not forget about Android users, who have access to a range of alternative tracker tags operating under similar principles. Whilst the research did not extend into alternative ecosystems, the risks and security implications might not stop at this boundary, and it is safe to assume this attack surface is not going away anytime soon. 

Closing the Loophole

Staying safe isn’t complicated — first and foremost, keep on top of updates. Apple has already rolled out patches, so make sure you’re running the newest version to stay protected.

Next, be aware that awareness is key. Knowing how tracking tech can be misused and regularly checking for unknown devices can go a long way in protecting your privacy.

For professionals, detection systems can be developed . By identifying unusual Bluetooth signals, security tools can flag and block unauthorized devices pretending to be AirTags.

What’s Next for AirTag Security?

While Apple's AirTag system offers a convenient solution for locating lost items, the recent findings underscore the importance of continually assessing and fortifying the security of such infrastructures. As technology evolves, so do the methods employed by those seeking to exploit it, necessitating a proactive approach to safeguard user privacy and security.

At 45 Cyber Labs we test hardware and software components for weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and provide risk mitigation advice to our clients. If you’re concerned about the integrity of your systems, or need someone to act as a critical friend, get in touch to learn how we can help!