World News: Talking Tech: Apple AirTag safety, plus how to take better selfies

Thursday, January 27

Happy Thursday, Talking Tech readers. It's Brett Molina back again with another round of tech headlines.

Let's start with Apple AirTags. Sure, they're helpful for trying to find your lost keys for the 500th time, but these digital trackers have presented a multitude of privacy and safety concerns.

The ease with which you can enable an AirTag has downsides. Namely, it is very easy to slip an AirTag anywhere without anyone noticing.

That's why Apple had to issue a personal safety guide to help users protect themselves from rogue AirTags among other potential privacy concerns. Police departments nationwide have reported domestic stalking and stolen car cases linked to AirTags.

A couple quick tips to stay safe:

IF YOU HAVE AN IPHONE: It will alert you through the FindMy app if a suspicious AirTag is nearby, such as tucked into a backpack or purse.

IF YOU HAVE AN ANDROID PHONE: Apple launched a Tracker app used to locate AirTags that don't belong to you.

ONE MORE OPTION: After a while, the AirTag makes a sound when separated from its owner. If you know it's not yours, flag the authorities.

What else happened in tech?

TAKE BETTER SELFIES. Seriously, hide that double chin! (Sorry, I was writing to myself there.)

YOUTUBE BREAKS OUT THE BANHAMMER. Fox News host Dan Bongino has been permanently banned trying to circumvent an earlier suspension over COVID misinformation.

AMAZON GO GOES TO THE SUBURBS. The cashier-free stores from Amazon are expanding.

WE STILL LOVE POKÉMON. There's a new game coming out. We look at how the video game franchise has endured.

Thursday's tech tip

Yes, there can be life without Amazon. If you had a rough experience or are just exploring other shopping and tech options, here's how to permanently delete your account.