Lost and Found. How to scan an Apple AirTag and find its rightful owner

 

Ever get an alert that you have found a missing AirTag? Not sure what to do? For starters, don’t ignore the warning. That alert is there because the item attached to the AirTag is likely lost. Follow our instructions to connect to the AirTag and reach out to the owner of the missing item. You probably will make their day.

What Is an AirTag?

The AirTag is Apple’s answer to the once-popular Tile tracking device. You can attach one to your keys or drop it into your purse or backpack.

When connected to an iOS device, you can quickly locate the item using the Find My app.

The AirTag pairs with older iPhone models, but works best with the new iPhones equipped with Apple’s U1 chipset. With these newer iPhones, you get a Precision Finding feature that helps you pinpoint the item’s location and directs you to it.

How to Scan an AirTag

Apple designed the AirTag to be easy to use for both the owner and the finder. If you find an AirTag and receive a Lost Mode message, you can find out to whom it belongs as follows:

1. Pick up the AirTag and place it at the top back portion of your iPhone or another NFC-capable smartphone. Make sure the white side of the AirTag is facing the back of your phone.

2. Tap the notification banner that appears on your iPhone.

3. This will open a website that provides information about the AirTag.

Most likely, all you will see is the AirTag’s serial number, which may or may not be helpful. For privacy reasons, you will not be able to access the owner’s name, address, or similar personal information unless...

AirTag Lost Mode

Some owners realize their AirTag-equipped item is lost and will enable Lost Mode on the tracker.

Lost Mode marks the tracker as being lost, making it possible for others to find the tracker and know that it is lost. It also lets the owner add a message for the finder. Owners can add their phone number or other pertinent information in this short message.

If you are fortunate enough to have the owner’s contact information, you can reach out to them directly to tell them that you found their AirTag.