OHIO SENATE MOVES TO CRIMINALIZE SECRETLY TRACKING PEOPLE WITH AIR TAGS, SIMILAR APPS, DEVICES

Tracking someone through apps and devices like the popular Apple AirTag without their consent could soon be deemed a criminal offense in Ohio, after the state's Republican-led Senate advanced the measure Wednesday with a unanimous bipartisan vote.

The proposed legislation comes as big tech companies such as Apple and Google are teaming up to combat the rise of mobile apps, AirTags and similar small, portable tracking devices that have been used by stalkers and for other nefarious purposes.

Typically attached to often misplaced items like keys or wallets, individuals are increasingly using them on cars and other property to track people without their knowledge.

Currently, there is no law expressly banning tracking people with apps and related devices in Ohio.