GPS Security And Privacy: Is It a Threat?
submitted: Aug 25th 2008 |
by: BradSeabourne |
Total views: 2 |
Word Count: 542 |
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As you may well be aware, there are many important benefits to consider when using the Global Positioning Satellite System (GPS). It is invaluable when trying to navigate in unfamiliar areas, but some people think it is an invasion of privacy. Security and privacy have been openly debated, and most adults believe that it is more beneficial than detrimental.
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.
This is also widely regarded as an invasion of our personal privacy. To give one example, a standard rental car contract will often stipulate that if you go over 79 miles per hour, you will have to pay extra for the wear and tear that the car suffers. The car rental company can find out if you are going too fast by receiving information from the GPS tracking devices that are attached to the vehicle. Thus, if you go over 79 miles per hour, they will know, and you will be billed.
Although some people worry about the invasion of privacy issues with GPS devices, most parents find that knowing that their child can be found if necessary trumps the privacy issues. Parents have been known to use cell phones to track a child's actions and movements. If the parents find that the child has disobeyed, they might lose privileges, such as driving or going out.
Two types of GPS vehicle tracking systems can be used. A passive GPS system will record data such as location and speed to be downloaded later. A vehicle can be tracked in real-time via the Internet with a more sophisticated system. A company can improve efficiency, productivity and their profitability.
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.
The development of GPS enabled phones is being encouraged in part due to the Federal Communications Commission's E-911 mandate requiring that the locaction of a cell phone be made available to emergency call dispatchers. It is a very useful and potentially life-saving technology, but some people have concerns about how this information will be utilized and by whom. Can the wrong people track their movements and activiries or even record phone calls?
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.
About the Author
Some people consider GPS cell phone tracking and GPS vehicle tracking devices to be a potential invasion of privacy.
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