A class-action lawsuit against Apple for alleged stalking using AirTag devices has been allowed to proceed by a U.S. District Judge in San Francisco. The lawsuit claims that stalkers have been using Apple's $29 AirTags to track victims without their consent and that the tech giant has not done enough to prevent this misuse of their product. While Apple attempted to have the case dismissed, arguing that they had taken proactive steps to deter misuse, Judge Vince Chhabria ruled that three claims can proceed for negligence and strict product liability under California law.

The plaintiffs in the case allege that AirTags have "revolutionized the scope, breadth, and ease of location-based stalking" and that current safety features are inadequate. They claim that Apple should have done more to protect victims from being tracked by individuals using AirTags without their consent. The victims detailed in the lawsuit include those who were stalked by former partners or others through AirTags attached to their cars, resulting in emotional and financial harm.

Gillian L. Wade, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, emphasized the importance of holding Apple accountable for the alleged misuse of their products and pushing for changes to prevent abusive location tracking. Apple has not yet responded to requests for comment on the ruling.

In response to concerns about the misuse of AirTags for stalking, Apple released a statement in February 2022 condemning any malicious use of their products and announcing planned updates to increase safety. The company also partnered with Google to submit a proposal aimed at setting standards for combatting secret surveillance using AirTags and similar devices.