Police are warning residents about smart tracking devices after reports of trackers being found on property and vehicles.
Waterloo Regional Police said Bluetooth tracking devices are commonly used to help locate and recover misplaced personal items such as keys, wallets, luggage, and other valuables.
Police said while the devices offer practical benefits, they have seen an increase in reports of tracking devices being placed on vehicles and personal belongings without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
These devices can be misused to monitor an individual’s movements and daily activities without their knowledge.
By tracking where a vehicle is parked, when someone leaves for work, or when a residence is vacant, would-be offenders may identify opportunities to commit crimes such as vehicle theft, theft from vehicles, break and enters, and other criminal offences, police said.
Trackers can be concealed in a variety of locations on or inside a vehicle, including underneath the vehicle, behind licence plates, within trailer hitch assemblies, inside wheel wells, or among items stored in or around the vehicle.
Police advise residents to treat any unknown tracker seriously and report it to police so the incident can be investigated.
Residents are encouraged to periodically inspect their vehicles and personal belongings for unfamiliar devices and to pay attention to smartphone alerts that may indicate an unknown tracking device is moving with them.
