AirTag stalking has started to become a problem, with more and more reports from victims sharing how one of Apple's newest products was used to stalk them. A bill in Ohio aims to correct that or at least prevent individuals from using the AirTags to stalk people as it could be considered a criminal offense.
Ohio House Submitted a Bill Aiming to Criminalize Use of Electronic Tags to Track without Permission
According to the story by Apple Insider, the Ohio House submitted a bill that tried to criminalize the use of electronic tags "for tracking people without permission." The attempt is to help stop using the Apple AirTags and other electronic tags for stalking.
The publication reports how the AirTags has been the subject of many controversies due to how it provides an easy way to stalk potential victims. The device can easily be used to track people despite the company's anti-stalking measures in play.
Bill HB672 Aims to Make Amendments to the Section 2903.211 of the Revised Code
Ohio decided to take a step forward in order to make AirTag-based stalking illegal through a new bill. The bill being talked about is HB672, which seeks to make amendments to section 2903.211 of the Revised Code.
This would prohibit people from installing a tracking device or application "knowingly" without the consent of the person. This bill is reportedly sponsored by Rep. Tom Patton (R) and Emilia Strong Sykes (D).
Ohio Law Loopholes Doesn't Cover Stalking Behaviour Through AirTags
The publication says that the decision for the litigation was partly due to 3News' decision to advocate over "unwanted monitoring and tracking" actively. Apple Insider stated that the matter was lobbied by the news organization.
As per the news organization, Ohio law had loopholes that would still enable tracking to happen. This is despite the law trying to prevent domestic violence and stalking behavior.
Emilia Strong Sykes Talks About the Issue
It was also pointed out that the perpetrator will not receive penalties for the acts talked about. Sykes announced that she was first not aware of the issue until contacted.
Sykes thanked the advocates for sharing the information with her despite them being scared, nervous, and confused. She announced that they are now acting on behalf of those that have approached her to help those that are already victims or potential victims in the future if nothing changes.
Read Also: A Man Uses His AirTags Coupled With A PowerPoint To Ask An Airline For His Lost Luggage
Bill Follows Other Legislations Regarding AirTag's Potential Misuse
The report says that at least 19 states already have laws that are specifically directed toward electronic tagging, with Ohio not being included. The bill is following other legislation regarding concerns of the AirTag's potential misuse.
As reported by 9to5Mac, Pennsylvania proposed an AirTag specific law to make it punishable to use the electronic tags for stalking purposes. Letitia James, New York attorney general, gave a warning back in February warning consumers about the dangers of AirTag stalking.
Related Article: AirTags With Deactivated Speakers Spotted on eBay and Etsy, Raises Privacy Concerns
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Written by Urian B.
