The Global Positioning Satellite System, or GPS, has brought many benefits to society. Examples include easier navigation and position-finding in unfamiliar terrain. However, it can result in various invasions of privacy. GPS privacy and security issues have become newsworthy recently. Many people believe that, despite the problems that can arise, the GPS system is still a new positive for society.
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.
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.
GPS cell phones allow people to track their loved ones with a much smaller investment. There are now options available for this from cell phone companies. However, the GPS data is not usually directly accessible to the user and an accurate determination of location needs assistance from the wireless network, thus the GPS data is only transmitted if a 911 call is made.
Another area in which 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.
Global Positioning Satellite Systems has added security to our lives but is it an invasion of privacy? GPS is available in many different products today and is increasingly used as a tool by the police department, concerned parents and GPS vehicle tracking devices are often used by rental car agencies. GPS cell phones are also available. The cell phone owner can be located by dialing 911 in an emergency. GPS security and privacy is a hot topic but most agree that the benefit is great. We can feel safer when we are more connected.
- Brad Seabourne
Highlights 
February 3rd, 2008 