The Truth About Mesh Networks and Surveillance

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is a Mesh Network?
3. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
4. Tile Trackers and Amazon Sidewalk
5. Apple Mesh Network and AirTags
6. Location Tracking with AirTags
7. Secondary Use of Apple Mesh Network
8. Government Surveillance and Mesh Networks
9. Portable Cameras and Environmental Sensors
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In recent years, the development of mesh networks has been a topic of interest for many people. These networks allow for Peer-to-peer communication between devices using radio, bypassing the need for an internet connection. The technology behind mesh networks is known as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which uses short bursts of radio traffic to communicate between devices. In this article, we will explore the Current status of mesh networks, including Amazon Sidewalk and the Apple Mesh Network, and their potential uses for surveillance. We will also discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these networks, as well as their implications for privacy.

What is a Mesh Network?

A mesh network is a communication system that requires no centralized control. Devices can talk to each other directly, using radio to communicate. The current technology uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which allows for longer-range communication than standard Bluetooth. BLE works by sending short bursts of data using a higher strength signal, which can travel up to 300 feet in the open. The standard range of BLE using version 4.0 radios is 1000 feet in the open, which is the most common.

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)

BLE is a low-power technology that allows devices to communicate with each other using short bursts of data. BLE devices can send signals for about a year, making them ideal for throwaway trackers. The technology uses very little power, and devices can communicate with each other via radio, bypassing the need for an internet connection. BLE is powered down most of the time, which allows BLE devices to Consume very little power.

Tile Trackers and Amazon Sidewalk

Tile trackers rely on a partnership with Amazon and use the Amazon Sidewalk mesh network. The Amazon Sidewalk network relies on Amazon Alexa, Echoes, and Ring cameras, which are powered with a constant power source. However, there are not enough of these devices to cover an area adequately, and the Tile app needs more help to succeed. The Tile app works on multiple phone models, and many phones are still on Bluetooth 4.0, which has a maximum range of 300 feet in the open.

Apple Mesh Network and AirTags

Apple has succeeded with its mesh network, and AirTags provide a lot of location data. AirTags use Bluetooth 5.0, which allows each phone to listen with a range of up to 1000 feet. The density of iPhones is very high in the US, with a market share of 56 percent, making it easier to encounter an AirTag. The constant movement of devices also allows for flexible reach, so even an AirTag encountering an occasional iPhone is enough to trigger a location.

Location Tracking with AirTags

The AirTag itself does not have a GPS, and the only purpose of the AirTag is to Broadcast a fixed identifier to the Apple mesh network. The AirTag identifier is sent over the air in an encrypted way, so someone listening in cannot determine the location of a specific AirTag. However, each iPhone may not know the identity of the AirTag it is receiving signals from. Each phone will send the received identifier to Apple, which then reports it to the owner of the AirTag. In order for location tracking to work, each iPhone needs to give its exact location to Apple every time it detects the AirTag.

Secondary Use of Apple Mesh Network

The Apple mesh network can be used to send and receive direct commands to the phone, even without an internet connection. Short commands can be given to the AI of the iPhone, and the iPhone could respond to Apple HQ if certain content is found. This Hidden and secret network can be used to send commands quietly to phones, even without internet or cell connections.

Government Surveillance and Mesh Networks

Mesh networks can be used for government surveillance, and portable cameras and other miniaturized environmental sensors can be placed everywhere to trigger data like motion and infrared. These devices can communicate through the mesh network, and some of them are miniature, so they can be hidden. Users should consider whether they want to participate in the surveillance infrastructure of the Apple mesh network.

Portable Cameras and Environmental Sensors

Portable cameras and environmental sensors can be used to observe the environment, and this can be done very cheaply. These devices can communicate through the mesh network, and they could work for a year like this. The possibility remains that miniature portable tracking devices with low power getting remote instructions via a mesh network needs to be understood.

Conclusion

Mesh networks have the potential to be used for surveillance, and users should consider whether they want to participate in the surveillance infrastructure of the Apple mesh network. Portable cameras and environmental sensors can be used to observe the environment, and this can be done very cheaply. Users should be aware of the potential uses of mesh networks and take steps to protect their privacy.