One of our basic needs is to feel secure about the safety of our loved ones and their priceless possessions in this fast-paced world. Installing a GPS tracking system that provides you with security assurance is the answer to that problem. A GPS tracker uses geofencing to communicate with satellites to figure out the latitude and longitude of the target object or vehicle and transmit it to the specified smartphone application, where you can keep tabs on the device in one glance.
People and businesses use vehicle tracking devices more frequently. For instance:
- to find company vehicles, use fleet services
- companies that dispatch cars for taxis
- GPS is used to track personal cars [Check out this list of best Car GPS Trackers here]
For the above, people usually have the consent of the owner or the person driving the car.
However, what if someone installs such a device in a vehicle without your knowledge or permission? Your privacy will be invaded, right. But sadly, trackers are available for purchase online from various vendors who sell equipment for private investigations or amateur spying.
Some retail establishments that focus on GPS, video surveillance, and electronics sell them. Having someone secretly track you or your family sounds extremely dangerous. If you ever feel at risk of someone keeping a tab on you, this article will take you through everything you might need to know about keeping yourself and your loved one safe from illegal tracking and potential crimes.
Know The GPS You Are Looking For
Source: autocative.com
Vehicle tracking systems primarily come in two varieties:
- Monitored Tracking System – The device, which functions much like a cell phone and broadcasts real-time data about its position, relays data whenever it is moving or at predetermined intervals. Most are battery-operated, though some are connected to the vehicle for power. The battery-powered tracking devices have a sensor that detects when the tracker is moving, starts power and signal transmission, and turns off the device after the tracker does not move for a certain amount of time. You can receive tracking data on a smartphone or an internet-connected computer.
- WIRED DEVICE – The wired GPS tracking device connects to the truck power line, ACC line, etc. This type of GPS tracking device derives power from the vehicle to work. The built-in micro battery typically enables the device to continue working for 0.5 to 1.5 hours after switching off. So your data is saved from being intentionally disconnected and left incapable of performing its task. This device is simple to locate since it must be installed where the power cord is.
- OBD GPS DEVICE – the wireless device has no external wire. The battery life will be shorter the higher the positioning frequency. As a result, wireless GPS trackers typically have a long standby time of two to three years before needing a battery replacement. If you check the OBD port, you can find it easily.
- PORTABLE GPS DEVICE – The hardest to locate out of them all is the portable GPS device. It is a tiny box-shaped rechargeable gadget with a battery life of 2 weeks, but it can go for 5-6 months in standby mode.
A portable device does not need a power source or an OBD port so anyone can attach this device to your car covertly.
- Unmonitored GPS tracking systems – These work as handheld GPS devices and store waypoints onboard without transmitting their location. The GPS tracking device on the vehicle records waypoints at fixed times as locations that must afterward be mapped while it is moving. The unmonitored gadgets are less pricey because they do not need a subscription to monitor them; instead, the tracking data has to be retrieved and downloaded.
Ways To Check For A Hidden GPS Tracker
Source: freepik.com
There are a few easy steps you can take to find out if someone is tracking you or if you believe there is a GPS tracker in your car without your knowledge.
Examine the exterior
- Wheels –
Check the wheels of the car very carefully on both sides. Examine the area that is invisible with your hands. Additionally, take a look behind any plastic covers that are attached to the vehicle.
- Beneath the car –
You can use the mirror reflection can be used to inspect the areas. The area below tends to get dirty, and if the tracker is there, the layer of dust covering it may cause you to miss it. Therefore, exercise caution when looking for the GPS tracker.
- Behind the bumpers –
The majority of bumpers lack the room necessary to conceal a tracking device. But even a small area found inside of it can be the safest place.
- Inside the hood –
It is best not to disconnect anything unless you are sure what you are doing. But because there can be a GPS tracker, pay close attention to any wires attached to the battery. However, there is less chance of a tracker being installed under the hood because higher temperatures can harm its electrical components.
SAFETY TIP: Since the person who illegally installed the GPS tracker needs to be able to access it, they usually put it somewhere that it can be quickly and covertly removed. It is best to concentrate your efforts on areas near the edge of your car.
Examine the vehicle’s interior
Source: pinterest.com
- The data port –
Some trackers are simple to use and can be plugged directly into the data port on the driver’s side of the dashboard. Look to see if the data port has a small box attached. If it is there, it is simple to get rid of.
- Around the trunk –
You might overlook the storage area in your car if you look for a tracker. If the locator is inside the truck, you might be able to find it tucked away in any small crevice or beneath any spare tire.
- Seats and carpet –
Any item you find missing from your car, whether it be a small wired or wireless electric module, should be thoroughly searched for. Check underneath the car seats and carpets by moving them. Make sure to look at the seat edges, so that you do not miss something taped over there.
- Under the dashboard –
Most models allow you to remove the board under the wheel and the glove box compartment.
- Use your hand to feel beneath the dashboard for any antennas or look for loose wires that are not connected to other cables.
Bug Sweeper
You can use bug-sweeping devices to find electromagnetic signals like those from radio transmitters, cell phones, and electronics. If the manual inspection fails to reveal any GPS trackers, you can use bug sweepers to discover any active trackers.
SAFETY TIP: Ask a friend to drive your car while you look for trackers because you can only detect some racker when in motion.
Should You Seek Professional Help?
If you have tried all the methods and are still unable to locate a GPS vehicle tracking device but are still skeptical that something is wrong, there is only one solution. Bring along a professional to inspect the car. Call a reliable installer after finding one. Due to their extensive knowledge of the subject, these experts are helpful.
They are aware of the requirements for the devices and their potential locations. If the installers come across a covert GPS tracker, getting rid of it is safe and simple. Most trackers are battery-powered, so they won’t be wired to your car. You can easily disconnect the device if there are no wires attached. If the tracker is tied or taped, you must carefully cut it loose to avoid damaging the wiring or other parts. You can remove the object by gently pulling it if it is magnetic.
Conclusion
Illegal tracking is a serious crime, and if you suspect something is wrong with your car or someone is following, you can contact the police. Look for these signs and call for help to keep yourself and your family safe and sound.
