Pennsylvania took a significant step on Tuesday towards addressing the issue of unauthorized tracking using Bluetooth-connected devices. The state House of Representatives voted 199-1 in favor of legislation that would classify the use of a tracking device to monitor someone without their consent as a form of stalking under Pennsylvania law. This offense would be considered a third-degree misdemeanor, carrying a potential penalty of up to 90 days in jail.
The bill will now move to the Senate for further consideration. In parallel, the Senate is reviewing a separate bill that proposes stricter penalties for this crime, potentially elevating it to a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in jail.
Across the United States, many states already have laws prohibiting remote tracking, with others actively working to strengthen existing legislation. For instance, Ohio is contemplating similar measures, Florida is enhancing penalties for the use of tracking devices, and Kentucky passed a new law addressing this issue last year.
Bluetooth-enabled devices manufactured by various tech companies or mobile apps can be exploited to monitor the movements of individuals without their knowledge. The recent approval of the House bill coincides with a recent legal development involving Apple and its AirTag devices.
Apple's AirTags, priced at $29, have gained popularity since their launch in 2021, offering users a convenient way to track items like keys, wallets, and luggage. However, these devices have also been misused by individuals engaging in stalking behavior.
Following a class-action lawsuit against Apple, a federal judge rejected the company's motion to dismiss the case. The lawsuit alleges that Apple failed to implement adequate safeguards to prevent stalkers from exploiting AirTags to track their victims.
Apple has emphasized its condemnation of any malicious use of AirTags and argued in court that it has taken proactive measures to discourage misuse. The company also highlighted its collaboration with Google to establish industry standards aimed at combating illicit surveillance through tracking devices.
