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If you find a tracker, think carefully before removing it. Removing it tells the other person you found it. Document it first (photo with date) and get advice.
Hidden Tracking Devices
Someone places a small tracking device — like an AirTag, Tile, or GPS tracker — in your bag, car, or belongings to follow your movements.
What You Might Notice
Your phone alerts you about an unknown tracker travelling with you
iPhones and some Android phones will warn you if an unknown AirTag or similar device is nearby for a long time.
The other person always seems to know where you are
They reference specific places you've been, your routes, or when you arrived somewhere — without you telling them.
You find a small unfamiliar device in your things
Trackers can be small — about the size of a coin. Check under seats, in wheel wells, inside bag pockets, or attached to keyrings.
You hear periodic beeping from your bag or car
Some trackers beep to help owners find them. If you hear unexplained beeping, investigate.
What You Can Do
Enable unknown tracker alerts on your phone
On iPhone, this is on by default. Android users can download the Tracker Detect app or enable similar built-in features.
Check your car systematically
Look under the chassis, in wheel wells, behind bumpers, in the boot, and under seats. A torch and mirror help.
Check your everyday bags and belongings
Go through pockets, linings, and any compartments. Feel for small hard objects that shouldn't be there.
Document before removing
If you find a tracker, photograph it in place with a timestamp. This preserves evidence.
Consider whether it's safer to leave it in place temporarily while you make a safety plan.
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Placing GPS tracking devices such as AirTags, Tile trackers, or vehicle GPS units in victim's belongings, vehicle, or on their person without consent. These commercially available devices are inexpensive, small, and designed for long battery life, making covert placement easy. Perpetrators use them to monitor victim's movements, identify frequented locations, and anticipate travel patterns.
Bluetooth Tracker Detection Use tracker detection applications to scan for nearby Bluetooth tracking devices. Enable platform-native unknown tracker alerts.
SAFE-M-0007
Physical Vehicle Inspection Conduct systematic inspection of vehicles for GPS tracking devices in common concealment locations.
SAFE-M-0008
Belongings Audit Inspect bags, clothing, and frequently carried items for concealed tracking devices.
SAFE-M-0009
Evidence Preservation Protocol If tracker discovered, document location and preserve for evidence before removal. Removal alerts monitoring party.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0006
Platform Tracker Alerts Device displays alerts for unknown tracking devices travelling with user.
SAFE-D-0007
Location Knowledge Indicators Adversary references specific locations, routes, or timing not disclosed by target.
SAFE-D-0008
Physical Device Discovery Small electronic device found attached to vehicle or concealed in belongings.
SAFE-D-0009
Audible Tracker Indicators Periodic beeping from unknown source in belongings or vehicle.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.