GPS Security And Privacy: Should Safety Trump Privacy?
Many of us are already familiar with the benefits of Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) Systems. The most notable of these, of course, is their use in navigating in unfamiliar areas. While some people consider GPS technology an invasion of privacy, the overall sentiment is that the benefits of GPS systems outweigh the negatives.
GPS tracking devices can provide monitoring data on a vehicle such as total miles driven, speeds that it was driven, traveled routes, as well as its current location. The sophistication and quantity of available monitored data varies depending upon the system and the make and model of the GPS device and vehicle of installation.
GPS vehicle tracking devices provide a lot of advantages but can also be problematic to people who are concerned with their privacy. An example of this invasion of privacy involves the automobile rental companies. Usually there is a disclosure in fine print that states the responsibility of wear on the vehicle is that of the renter if they drive over 79 miles per hour. The GPS system records this information which the rental company can retrieve to determine when the renter has driven over the designated miles per hour. The renter will then see this additional fee on their credit card bill.
Remember that any statements about “guarantees to privacy”, do not apply to parents monitoring their underage teenagers. This device lets one know exactly where there children are, if not what they are doing. Since the records are stored in tamper proof memory, there is no way to avoid punishment when rules are broken.
GPS cell phones no longer require people to purchase expensive hardware to track a loved one. Cell phone companies now offer this option. However most cell phones do not offer the user direct access to the GPS data. Accurate location determination requires the assistance of the wireless network, and the GPS data is transmitted only if a 911 emergency call is made.
Another area in which GPS security and privacy issues have become important is with cellular phones. Many people do not know that their cell phones can be used to keep tabs on them. They make it easier for police officers to go about their business, because cops can track both victims and suspected criminals much more easily. Stolen cars are also easier to locate now. Each year, the tracking devices become better and gain new features. While these tracking devices can help keep you safe and protect your family and property, they can also be abused to invade your privacy.
As many of you already know, the Global Positioning Satellite System has a number of major benefits. It can be of huge assistance to those navigating in unfamiliar territory. But some people consider it to be an invasion of privacy. GPS security and privacy, has been widely discussed. GPS vehicle tracking devices can provide monitoring data, such as total miles driven, speeds that it was driven, traveled routes, as well as its current location. The benefit of GPS cell phones is that, with this technology there is no need of buying expensive equipment to monitor a loved one.
- Brad Seabourne