There have been some interesting stories about how GPS tracking systems needed to “see the sky.” And there have been plenty of idiots who have simply attached the tracker to the roof of the car. In that case, finding the tracker is simple. In more sophisticated and therefore challenging locating exercises, it can take mechanics several hours to find the device, especially when it is mounted behind the dash. Under the dash seems to be the most common place to hide devices if you have access to the interior of the car. If the car is locked or attacked by law enforcement, the device may simply be stuck at the bottom of the car.
Some devices run on batteries and have a short time to transmit a signal. Others will be connected to the car battery with virtually unlimited transmission time.
Older GPS tracking devices are passive. Passive devices store data but do not transmit it. The device must be retrieved and the data read to determine where someone has been. These devices are becoming less common.
Everyone now wants real-time data. Active devices can instantly transmit the location of a person or vehicle. These devices can run out of battery for a few days or, if connected to the car’s electrical system, run perpetually tracking the vehicle wherever it goes.
There are also companies that supply detectors like Spy-Nexus and BrickHouse Security. Interestingly, BrickHouse Security sells trackers and detectors. These GPS detectors are based on finding the signal from the transmitting device. This signal is generally a cell phone signal that broadcasts all the time. The most sophisticated devices only transmit while the vehicle is in motion, making detection in a stationary vehicle with a detector impossible.
Another company, Insignia available at Best Buy, had a device called the “Little Buddy Tracker” that was a “Kid Tracking Solution for Paranoid Parents.” This device has been discontinued but a replacement from Garmin is a good replacement. These devices, placed in a child’s backpack, allow real-time monitoring of the child or at least of her backpack.
And then there’s cell phone tracing… but that’ll have to wait for our next issue.
While spy technology can provide great evidence, many judges refuse to admit evidence if it is obtained through illegal means. Before purchasing or deploying any spying equipment, we recommend speaking with an attorney about the legality of using spying technology in your state or jurisdiction.
Unfortunately, however, these GPS devices are often installed and used before such conversations take place.
