Gps Security And Privacy: Is It A Threat?

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 vehicle tracking devices can be used to monitor many types of data such as how many miles a car has been driven, how fast the automobile was going, and where the vehicle is located. This all varies depending on the device and system that is utilized.

At times, individuals perceive this as an invasion of privacy. For instance, most customers fail to read the fine print on car rental contracts that states additional charges will be accrued if the driver exceeds a speed of 79 miles per hour. The GPS tracking mechanisms employed by rental companies could record the incidence and frequency of times when drivers do exceed this limit, and charge the credit card on file an added wear and tear fee based on this information.

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.

The benefit of GPS is that people who possess cell phones with this technology no longer need to buy expensive equipment to monitor a loved one. Many wireless companies provide this service; however, most do not provide users with a direct feed to GPS data. Therefore, the assistance of the cellular company is necessary to accurately pinpoint a person's location with the data, which is transmitted only in the event of a dialed 911 emergency call.

The FCC's E-911 mandate that requires cell phone location data to be available to emergency responders has resulted in the development of GPS enabled phones. This technology is very useful and potentially life-saving, but some people are concerned about how this information will be utilized and by whom. Who might track their movements and activities 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.

by: Brad Seabourne.

POST COMMENT

Call Center Security: End-Point Control What you need to know in order to effectively eliminate Security Essentials 2011 from your PC forever! Security Secrets the Bad Guys Don't Want You to Know 24 Hour Security With A 24-hour Locksmith Towards An Enhanced Role Of The Un Security Council In Maintaining International Peace And Security Fit A Wireless Alarm For The Ultimate Security Beads Badge Holders Used For Security And More Remove Security Inspector 2010 - The best way to Uninstall/remove Security Inspector 2010 Rapidly Get To Know The Six Levels Of Paper Shredder Security Remove Security Inspector 2010 - How to Uninstall/ Remove Security Inspector 2010 Completely Understanding Shredder Security Levels What is Security Essentials 2011? Best Spyware Scanner Review – How Can I Conduct a Removing security tool Removal