NYPD to Give Away 500 Apple AirTags to Combat Vehicle Theft [Video]

New York City officials are giving away 500 Apple AirTags to help combat vehicle theft in the city, according to ABC News. Grand larceny auto, or vehicle theft, is up 13% citywide compared to this time last year, with nearly 4,500 vehicles reported stolen.

"Your phone will be alerted. You know someone's in your car who's not supposed to be, and/or it's stolen. You call 911 as fast as you can. You tell the officers involved 'I have an AirTag, 'and they will immediately with citywide apprehension apparatus will start putting that tag citywide," said NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell.


The Association for a Better New York (ABNY), a nonprofit, has donated 500 AirTags that will be given away citywide. Further details will be provided on the NYPD's Twitter account.

Notably, the police department blames part of the rise in theft to a TikTok Auto Theft Challenge targeting Kia and Hyundai vehicles. "This year alone, we have 966 Hyundais and Kias taken," said Chief Chell.

If you don't already have an AirTag, you can purchase a single tracker for $29. However, we'd suggest getting a four pack as it is currently on sale for $89.99, down from $99.

Check out the video below for more details...