Tuesday, August 26, 2008

GPS Security And Privacy: Safety vs. Privacy

By Brad Seabourne


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.

These handy little pieces of electronics can tell one much more than simply the current place where they are standing. With a little bit of training, the data can be used as a speedometer, odometer, and homing beacon. The functions are virtually limitless to the creative mind.

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.

There are two types of GPS vehicle tracking systems. Passive GPS tracking devices will record data such as location and speed. The data can later be downloaded to a computer for analysis. With a real-time device, it is possible to track the vehicle live via the Internet. A GPS vehicle tracking system can be used to strengthen a company's bottom line by improving productivity and efficiency.

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?

Greater peace of mind and comfort are important when it comes to cellular telephones. Most folks don't realize they can actually be traced with their cells. The cops can use these to find crime doers and their victims, and even stolen cars. Each year there are more innovative versions of these devices with new bells and whistles. These gadgets can make us, and our families and friends feel safer and more connected. One caveat, however is that the data these devices contain might be subject to abuse.

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