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.
Frequently, parents believe that GPS security and privacy issues are minimal in comparison with the security of knowing the location of their child. In fact, some parents use GPS devices to monitor their child's location and activities. If their child fails to follow the parents' guidelines, these parents may opt to suspend driving and socialization privileges.
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.
Cellphones raise lots of privacy issues. Consumers are often not aware that their movements are recorded and tracked. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) reveal a person's location. This type of location data helps police with their investigations, such as tracking down a criminal or even someone who is lost or missing. They can act as a safety device to protecting your family and loved ones. Location technology also helps locate stolen cars. The technology for these tracking devices is constantly improving. However, there is some potential that tracking data can be misused.
As many of you already know, the Global Positioning Satellite System (GPS) has a number of major benefits. But some people consider it to be an invasion of privacy. Many adults believe that the pros of the gps security and privacy outweigh the cons. Devices such as GPS vehicle 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 benefit of GPS is that people who possess GPS cell phones no longer need to buy expensive equipment to monitor a loved one.
Published January 22nd, 2008
Filed in Law




