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Cell Phone GPS Tracking – Privacy Issues

Although there are many advantages to cell phone GPS tracking, there are also privacy concerns. As most people carry their mobile phone with them at all times, the ability is in place to track the exact movements of all individuals. Is this a case of Big Brother, and who can access this information?

Cell Phone GPS tracking can prove useful in many walks of life and especially when an emergency arises. Picture the scene of a road accident where injuries have occurred. A 911 call made from a GPS mobile phone would significantly speed up the arrival of the emergency services if the GPS signal from the phone can be pin-pointed to an exact location. This feature alone could save many lives.

For these reasons the FCC has instructed that wireless network providers provide the cell phone GPS tracking location for 911 calls which have been made by callers. This is known as E911. In essence this is no different than a 911 call made from a land line, as the land line is registered to an address and the relevant emergency services can be quickly dispatched to that address.

However, where the difference occurs is that a property does not move but the tracking of a GPS phone is registering the day to day movements of an individual, and that has given rise to the privacy concerns of who can access such private information.

However, the relevant law relating to E911 is fairly explicit. It allows carriers to provide tracking location information to third parties for e911 emergency calls only, however not under any other circumstances whatever without the consent of the mobile phone owner.

The privacy of phone GPS tracking has also been backed up by a number of recent court hearings. Recent court hearings have disallowed the requests of law enforcement agencies to obtain cell phone GPS tracking information from the phone companies for suspects. The courts have ruled that Congress has not authorized location tracking without actual evidence of wrongdoing and that probable cause is not sufficient reason for the release of records.

These events will ensure that the advantages of cell phone GPS tracking will not be compromised by privacy issues and that its long term future and usefulness is secured.

Source by Alan Chestnutt

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Personal GPS Tracking Unit – Is It a Blessing?

We can see a short distance ahead, but personal GPS trackers allow us to monitor a person, wherever he/she goes. It is the device that gives all information about him/her. Usually, it is utilized to track the vehicles, like- taxi, car, bikes, yacht, etc. But, within the few years, the technology has emerged with numerous innovations and the upgradations. Now, the GPS tracker is also applicable to the humans and the animals. Therefore, today, you are capable of tracing the children, the elderly persons, an individual, mentally-disables, and the pets to ensure their safety.

It is good to see that several transformations have occurred. But, at the same jiffy, the unethical acts are also increased. You just can’t take the responsibility of anything anytime. Theft, kidnapping, rape, murders, blackmailing, etc. are growing exponentially. Under such tragic circumstances, the GPS tracker is a boon. Whether your child leaves the house to play on the playing field or your aged relatives go for a walk, you can easily keep an eye on them through this useful gear.

Wear and Locate

It is a simple gadget that can be worn without any effort. Let the person wears it and then you are able to watch on his/her every movement. Actually, this apparatus makes a wall for the wearer. It will immediately alert the locator if the person, who is wearing, exceeds the specific limit. Yes, the global positioning tracking system has the predefined limit, up to which it will work.

The market has a wide range of the tracking instruments that you can use for your loved ones. But, shop after a proper inspection. After all, it is for the sake of your relatives’ security. Attach it to your beloved pet or give it to the child or the elder persons to wear, and keep the record of their footsteps.

Everywhere Safety

The GPS tracking device works on different global GSM bands, like- 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, etc. They are best suitable to have the information about the child, or any other person. The wearer goes at any place, he/she will be easily located by the tracker. Either, the child goes for the hiking with the friends or in the public library, you are already acquainted with his each movement.

Moreover, if an individual having the Alzheimer’s problem steps out of the house or walks away at any secluded place, then you can simply get his right location and reach him at the appropriate time.

In short, this equipment will provide the complete security of all your loved ones.

Personal GPS Tracking Unit and Business

How are they co-related? Employing the global positioning system in the business sphere will be also beneficial. You can look out on your suspicious employees, drivers, and the other subordinate entities. Doing this will give you the exact route your driver will pursue, and the activities of the other staff.

Of course, the GPS monitoring device is a gift to the humanity, if it is used ethically.

Source by Brian Gibson

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Where Are Your Kids – Children GPS Tracking

Those of you with kids know that keeping track of where they are can be a huge job, especially as they get older. If you want to lessen the stress and make your life more peaceful why not consider using GPS tracking of your children.

GPS is Global Positioning Systems and it is one of the greatest technological advances for keeping children safe. In this day and age a GPS tracking system for your kids can mean the difference between stress and peace in your life.

GPS these days is extremely reliable and accurate. And it is so small that it can be placed in so many different objects ranging from watches to backpacks. This gives you the ability to know where your children are at all times of the day (and night if necessary).

Because the GPS tracking devices can be placed in such objects as watches and cell phones it’s typically not hard to get younger children to wear them because they think these things are cool and it makes them feel older. Actually you would not even need to let your kids know the GPS device is in their new gadget if you do not want to.

Older children are of course a bit more challenging since they have value their privacy and do not want you ‘tracking’ their movements. Of course these teens are the ones that require tracking the most since they are able to range so far away from home. Teens definitely will not appreciate your tracking their movements, but there is a possible compromise you can work out with them.

The compromise is to buy them a car with the understanding that you will be installing a GPS system in the car. That way you can have the peace of mind knowing where they are and how to get in touch with them and they will get the increased independence and freedom that comes with having a car. For sure they may still not like it, but I’ll bet they take you up on it since having a car is such a huge step towards independence for most teens.

The ability to keep your kids safe is the number one priority for most parents and when we fail here it can lead to many unwanted consequences. With the affordability and ease of use of GPS tracking for kids there’s no reason not to know where your kids are at all times. GPS tracking gives you the wherewithal to keep track of and protect your most valuable possession. Just think of the peace of mind you’ll have know where your kids are and knowing that if they have an emergency you can get help to them so quickly.

Source by Steven Walters

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GPS Pet Tracker – The Perfect Way to Keep Beloved Pets Safe

Tired of losing your beloved pets? Most ones are clever enough to find their way home but sometimes they can stray away or become lost.

In today’s families a dog is not just a dog. In fact, dog is a part of your family. Obviously you want to keep eyes on your pooch’s whereabouts, especially when they might need your help.

Taking care of your furry friend does not only mean to keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner it is your responsibility to ensure that your beloved one is safe and secure wherever they are. But how this could be possible to look after your dog or cat all the time?

Fortunately, now we have GPS pet tracker that gives a peace of mind to every owner. You can easily keep tabs on your furry friend whether it is a dog or cat. This device will surely help you to locate your pooch if they wander off or get separated from you.

Suppose if you are out during the day and your loved one is at home, this GPS device will help you to know if your beloved has left the yard instantly. Moreover, while walking at the park with your pet you can off leash your dog without any further worry. As you can pinpoint his exact location easily with GPS locator.

Reasons why every dog owners should invest in a GPS tracker

  • Give your pup freedom to roam on any place safely.
  • Guard against canine theft.
  • Sends text and email messages if your pooch ever wander outside of the designated zone.
  • Easy for you to locate your dear on a map using the free mobile and web app.
  • Monitors your pooch activity during the day ensuring that they are safe.
  • Compact, lightweight and comfortable for your pet to wear.
  • Easy to use.
  • Waterproof so tracks even when your pooch go for swimming.
  • Understand your animal daily patterns and habits.

A GPS tracking system can save your pet’s life

Runaway cases are very dangerous situations that put your canine’s life at risk. Canines are euthanized when they are not claimed within a certain period of time.

Your GPS tracker device comes in handy by preventing runaway dogs in the first place. GPS tracking system will allow you to locate them and attend to their medical needs instantly.

Keep your beloved safe with this smart solution and track every moment or activity of your dog and cat in real time.

Source by Esha Singh

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The Purpose of GPS Tracking Devices

A GPS tracking device is not the same as a car GPS. Both GPS devices work by utilizing information via satellite coordinates. The basic purpose of a GPS tracker is to track a specific target vehicle or vehicles. The tracking device is able to relay information concerning where the vehicle has traveled, how long the vehicle stopped, etc. GPS tracking devices are usually installed in vehicles. However, GPS tracking devices can also be used for motor cycles, scooters and bicycles. Some GPS trackers are designed to monitor and track movements of laptop computers if computer is lost or stolen.

All GPS trackers use global positioning satellites which can determine accurately a vehicle’s location and speed. The GPS tracking system sends information to orbiting GPS satellites which route the data through a cellular or phone network back to an associated receiving device. GPS trackers can also send information via the internet and alert the recipient via SMS text messaging.

Like a common car GPS system, GPS trackers can also provide detailed mapping information showing where a target vehicle has traveled. The mapping details acquired can be archived for later reference.

GPS trackers are used by law enforcement, private investigators, fraud or insurance investigators, corporate and private individuals to secure information necessary for investigative purposes. Some companies, like limousine companies, cab companies and delivery companies, use GPS trackers monitor and keep accurate data records on how corporate vehicle fleets or properties are being utilized. In addition, GPS tracking devices can be used to track company vehicles if stolen.

Some companies used GPS tracking systems to improve productivity by monitoring mileage and speed of company vehicles to control fuel usage, thereby saving fuel cost. GPS tracking systems can also be used to log how employees use company vehicles for customer related delivery of products by detailing exactly when a product was delivered and received.

In addition, GPS tracking devices can be used legally to monitor family activities, i.e. children or spouses. However, the use of GPS trackers is controversial in these areas. Though GPS tracking devices can be used in most States, legally without a special permit or license, one should check applicable State or Federal regulations concerning the use of GPS tracking devices.

There are also functional differences between a GPS tracker and a GPS system. A GPS tracker is a device used to collect data by monitoring a target vehicle’s movements. This by default means the occupant or occupants inside the vehicle are tracked. A detailed map of the vehicles location can be sent a cell phone or computer system. The data received is not only recorded, but stored. GPS trackers are sometimes used by law enforcement officials to covertly track and monitor potential suspects being investigated.

GPS systems require installation of mapping software which allows devices to provide directional information for various locations. GPS trackers do not require mapping software to be installed in order to operate.

A GPS system is technically not designed to track a vehicle, but rather actively provide information to enable the driver to navigate successfully from one specific location to another preprogrammed destination.

All GPS systems use overhead satellites to acquire and relay latitude and longitude information which can pinpoint exact locations traveled. A GPS systems purpose is to provide directional information, while a GPS tracker purpose is to provide tracking information which can be used for investigative, corporate or private purposes.

Source by Carl B Jones II

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How to Use a Portable GPS Tracking Device System

GPS systems are a great tool that can be used for a wide variety of uses. You can utilize a GPS tracking device to pinpoint your exact location while you’re driving, hiking, running, fishing, sailing, biking, or exploring. No matter where you are in the world, a GPS tracking system can help you find your way.

GPS is not just for finding your own location, however. It can be used for car tracking, equipment tracking, asset tracking, and tracking people too. If you have a valuable item out in the open, such as a boat or motorcycle, you can put a GPS tracking device on it, and track its location in case it gets stolen. Business owners also utilize GPS fleet tracking to keep track of their company vehicles and ensure drivers are going where they’re supposed to be going. Read on to learn how to use this amazing technology.

Getting Set Up with Your GPS Tracker

There are two types of GPS trackers: hardwired and portable battery-powered tracking devices. For the purpose of this article, we will be discussing portable GPS trackers. Portable trackers are wireless, so you can use them for different things on a regular basis. Portable systems can move easily from car to car or person to person. There are no cumbersome wires anywhere on the device.

Once you have bought your new portable GPS tracking system, it’s important to determine where it can and can not track from. The GPS signal will penetrate glass, plastic, foam, fiberglass, and wood, but will not penetrate metal. So areas like under the hood of a car or in the trunk will not work, but underneath seats or the glove box of a car are okay. You can also put it in a backpack to track your child or attach it to a valuable item in case it gets stolen.

Always ensure your tracking device is fully charged before you use it to track someone / something. Most trackers will give you around eight hours of use on a full charge, and extended life battery packs can provide anywhere from 60 up to 120 hours of actual movement on a single charge.

Tracking Options

Depending on the tracking device you have purchased, your options may be different, but most will require that you log on to the tracking / reporting website and activate your account. It’s usually on this website that you will find live tracking features to show specific information about the vehicle (or other object) you are tracking, such as latitude, longitude, and its speed of travel. You will also find most reporting and alert system options online, such as when certain “alert zones” are entered, aggressive driving, speeding, etc.

GPS Tracker Options

If using the tracker in your own car, you will find many options on the interface which will typically include directions and routing, maps, and search features to find nearby gas stations, restaurants, etc. This feature can be helpful to guide a driver of the vehicle to any of these locations. Because there are so many different types of GPS trackers on the market today, this article can not cover exact directions for every type. For more information on using your portable GPS tracking device system, consult your user manual.

Source by Sarah Simmons

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How To Detect GPS Tracking Units

The new GPS auto tracker technology allows just about anyone to track anyone else. In addition almost all new cell phones have GPS tracking capabilities built in to them. Some even have the ability to transmit location information even with the battery removed. All of which make you wonder what happened to personal privacy. The answer is that there really is no privacy. Granted there are legal restrictions as to how and when you can use the new tracking technology however detecting GPS tracking units can sometimes be difficult.

There are basically two types of GPS tracking device technology available to the public. The simplest is called a passive or logger tracking device. This device is also the most difficult to detect and defend against. These devices can be as small as a matchbook and can be hidden just about anywhere. They are attached to a vehicle or individual and after a specific amount of time they must be retrieved. After retrieval the device is usually attached to a personal computer and the information is downloaded into a data base that is provided by the device manufacture.

Probably the best defense against passive / logger tracking devices comes in the form of a GPS blocker. These small units typically plug into your automobiles cigarette lighter port and provide protection for about 30 feet in any direction. Small handheld units are also available that run on batteries that also provide short range blocking. These units can range in price from $ 200 to $ 850.

The second type of GPS auto tracker or personal GPS tracking units are called real time tracking devices. These units do just as the name impressions, provide current real time location information on the individual or vehicle that is being tracked. This is accomplished through the use of cell phone technology. Recent technology improvements have greatly reduced the size and reliability of these tracking devices. You can purchase a battery operated unit the size of a small cell phone that will provide tracking information for up to a week before the battery requires charging. More commonly these units are attached to a vehicle and use the vehicles power supply to provide power to the tracking unit.

Real time tracking devices generally require the user to contract with a GPS tracking service company. These companies frequently provide the tracking devices and the software necessary to track the device on your personal computer. Depending on the contract the information is uploaded to you at time specific intervals. The most common information uploads range from 5 to 10 minutes.

Defending against this type of tracking device is reliably easy with a combination cell phone / GPS blocking device. These units range in cost from $ 300 to more than $ 1000. Of course either a cell phone or a GPS blocking device may accomplish the same affect. In addition if you feel that you are being tracked illegally you can contact your local law enforcement agency and let them do a scan of the vehicle or personal effects in question. Many small law enforcement agencies do not have this capability and in that case you have the option to purchase a scanning unit and do the scan yourself.

A word to the wise if you are involved in a criminal enterprise. Much of what we have outlined here will not prevent US government agencies from tracking you and your vehicles.

In most cases it is illegal to track just about anyone without their permission. However given the fact that is so hard to detect many tracking devices it is likely that illegal GPS auto tracker and personal tracking device technology will continue to be used.

Source by Jim Kesel

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Top 2 Ways to Jam GPS Tracking Devices

The one thing that can be certain with technology is that as it advances, our privacy retreats. Many high tech devices are great at spying, probing and prying our daily movements and activities, and now it is easier than ever for average citizens to get into the game as well. GPS tracking technology is no different. This technology allows employers, parents and jealous ex-lovers to track our movements as easy as logging into a GPS tracking system, and as affordable as a monthly cable bill. As an individual, how do you get your privacy back? There are 2 effective ways for taking yourself off of the GPS radar grid.

1. Purchase a GPS Jamming Device

GPS Jamming devices work off of the concept that if the signal can’t reach the GPS tracking device, then no tracking can take place. GPS Jamming devices work by sending out a stronger localized signal that effectively blocks the incoming tracking data so the tracking device can’t see the signal to be able to store the coordinates into the device. No tracking information is then recorded in the device because there is nothing to record. GPS jamming devices work within a small area and are effective in vehicles in jamming the signal to the vehicle’s tracking device, or they can be used on your person to jam any GPS device you are carrying (such as a cell phone).

The major issue with these devices is that many localities ban the sale of these devices because they are transmitting signals at frequencies that the FCC doesn’t like. Even though these devices are only effective at a short distance, owning these devices is still prohibited. It is similar to having radar detecting equipment in localities that have made it illegal. You can find places online willing to sell these jamming devices to anyone willing to take the risk of getting caught with one.

2. Use Good Old Fashioned Technology

Another way to jam GPS signals is to use good old fashioned technology… metal foil. If you can find the wires in the GPS tracking device, you can wrap the wires in a metal foil (aluminum foil or some other type of metal foil) and you will be able to block much of the signal coming into the device. The issue is that you have to know where the GPS tracking device is and you have to know where the antennae wires are on the device. If the device is in some hidden part of the automobile, you may have some digging to do in order to find it, and it may be difficult to encase the wires in foil.

Unfortunately, the ways in which you regain your privacy when it comes to being tracked through GPS tracking device. Even though your options may be limited, they are effective. The solution you use to keep your privacy may be determined by where you live and the local laws in your area.

Source by B Hopkins

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How to Detect If Someone Put a GPS Tracking Device on My Car?

If you’re like many people, you may be wondering how to detect if someone has placed a GPS tracking device on your vehicle. GPS Tracking devices have gotten so small, they are commonly the size of a pack of cigarettes, and some are even as small as a quarter! With devices that small, they can be hard to detect, especially if you’ve got a large vehicle.

The first thing you need to know is that there are two different types GPS tracking devices:

GPS “Loggers”

A GPS Logger is a passive device, meaning that it doesn’t actively transmit your GPS location. This means whoever put a GPS logger on your car will have to place it on your car, and then retrieve it later in order to view the driving data, which is stored on the device. A popular example of this is the Sleuthgear iTrail GPS Logger, which is only 1.5″X1.5″ big.

GPS “Trackers”

A GPS Tracker is an active device, meaning that it actively transmits your location “live”, usually to a secure website, where the person who placed it there can view your location and driving information via a web browser or special program. Once they put it on there, they do not have to retrieve it, they can just view the information online. They will likely come back later though, because the battery life on active tracker is usually less than 30 days.

Here’s where knowing the difference between the two types of tracking devices is important. A GPS Logger (like the iTrail GPS) can only be detected manually – meaning you’ll have to physically search for it. The reason for this is because since they don’t actively transmit a signal (they just store data to the device), then a bug detector or bug sweeper won’t be able to pick up any kind of transmission or signal. If you suspect that you might have a GPS logger on your vehicle, the first place to look for it is UNDER THE VEHICLE. This is the most popular place to hide a GPS tracking device, and is accomplished by placing the device inside a magnetic case, which securely attaches to the metal on the underside of your vehicle. Other places to look are in the glove box, center console, and the truck (including under the spare tire).

If you suspect that you might have an active GPS Tracker on your car, a manual search is always the first step. Look under the vehicle, in the glove box, and in the trunk. These type of units are usually bigger than GPS Loggers because they need a bigger battery in order to actively transmit a signal. If you don’t have time to do a manual search, you’re in luck, because active GPS Trackers can be easily detected by a GPS Detector.

A GPS Detector is a handheld device that is usually battery powered that allows you to “sweep” your vehicle (or wherever else you want to locate a GPS Tracker) and will alert you when it detects a transmitting GPS signal that is sending out your location. There is an adjustable sensitivity knob that allows you to hone in on the exact location of the tracker, so you can remove it from your vehicle.

A GPS detection device will also detect cell phone signals, because cell phones are commonly used as makeshift GPS tracking devices, since owners of cell phones can often use a “locate” feature of their phone to find out where it is at.

So if you want to find out if someone has placed a GPS tracking device on your car, first conduct a manual search, and for a quicker and easier search, use a GPS Detector.

Source by Jason Levine

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OBD Car Tracker Plug & Play GPS Tracking Device

Car tracking has become the need of the hour, and car owners certainly want their car to be safe. When people look for these devices, there are lots of options available in the market. This is not about the brand, but the various categories options can place one in a dilemma. Here is a detailed description of the types of trackers available in the market, and accordingly you can choose as per your needs and convenience.

There are 3 types of trackers available in the market.

• Hardwired

• Portable

• OBD

Hardwired Trackers

This kind of GPS trackers is for monitoring a single vehicle. These are mostly used in the vehicles of earlier than 1996 where the OBD II ports were missing. It is preferred for the car owners who want to hide the installation for greater security. The electrical system of the vehicle is used for power, and there is no need to charge the device manually.

Portable Devices

These are perfect for individuals to use on their cars, and who travel more frequently. This is a real time tracker that caters to the need of many users. These are modern devices, and the accessories are included in the package like a micro USB cable, lanyard and waterproof case.

OBD Plug and Play Chargers

This is a perfect choice for tracking not only a single vehicle but a fleet of vehicles. Using the OBD car tracker has lots of advantages for the users.

• The installation is simple, and it takes only a few seconds, say about 30 to 45 seconds.

• The plug and play real time tracking device can be fitted to the OBD II port of the car’s dashboard.

• There is no need to charge this device manually.

• Telematics is captured immediately, and the same is informed to the fleet owner. This helps the owners to ensure that the car is safe, and out of troubles.

• Any misuse of vehicles will be notified with no delays to the users.

Apart from these advantages, many features are alluring about the OBD plug and play tracking device.

• The operating expenses are reduced, as the shortest routes can be chosen.

• The company’s productivity can be increased as the employer can always oversee if the employees are misusing the vehicles.

• The vehicles can be effectively monitored round the clock, and the money saving is made easy, as fuel consumption is lowered.

• With the OBD car tracking device the vehicle utilization is maximized.

• The field staff can be managed with ease, and corrective actions wherever and whenever required can be taken.

• Route planning can be done with ease.

• The exact location of the vehicle can be traced at any given point of time.

• Dispatch inaccuracies can never happen, as the vehicles can be tracked for all reasons behind the delay.

• Administration account is single and managing the same is easy and non-complicated.

Precautions

Finding the right OBD port is a must, and for a few vehicles, these may not be compatible. But compared with the downsides of the hardwired devices which include the requirement of an auto electrician to fix the device, and the device being not portable, the disadvantages of the plug and play devices are negligible.

Source by Pradeep Rai