Person typing on a laptop displaying a map with location markers.

GPS tracking is something that, for a long time, was considered taboo within society. Five or ten years ago, GPS tracking would have been thought of as invasive, a breach of privacy, and perhaps immoral. However, public opinion on GPS tracking is shifting as new technology and uses for GPS emerge. With new products like smartwatches, smartphones and devices using GPS emerging, we are becoming less afraid of GPS tracking as it is now so common and helpful. People are now coming to understand GPS as a tool that increases efficiency and safety, not just for employers but for family members and valued possessions. That being said, there are still some misconceptions about GPS tracking people cling to that we hope to dispel.

The government can track my movements

This is a common myth often used against the support of GPS trackers. The basic GPS system is designed only to receive signals, not transmit them; therefore, your location cannot be fed back to a third party. More so, most cars are set up to have GPS navigation; again, this cannot be tracked from an external source.

A GPS Tracker can be hacked

The claim that a GPS tracker can be hacked is also a common myth. GPS trackers cannot be hacked as they are simply acting as a beacon for GPS signals. Only GPS-using devices that have access to the internet can be hacked, like smartphones and laptops. This is why purchasing tracking devices, like those supplied by Online Spy Shop, is more secure than using GPS on a mobile phone.

GPS Trackers are an invasion of my privacy at work

GPS tracking is quickly becoming an essential part of business processes for businesses that manage logistics or fleets. For a fleet of taxis, GPS tracking allows employers to monitor employees' travel time and divert their route from traffic. More so, management can also ensure staff are not injured or have been involved in an accident during work hours. No business owner will install tracking devices in vehicles without discussing them with employees to ensure they are comfortable with tracking. Taxi services like Uber and delivery services like Just Eat and Deliveroo would not be able to function properly without GPS helping customers track their food or delivery. Installing GPS trackers in vehicles is not about tracking employees but about increasing business efficiency and lowering costs.

It’s too expensive

Whilst an initial investment is required after you have purchased the tracker, there are plenty of opportunities to gain a return on your investment. Trackers require very little maintenance; for example, the SMS Terrain Tracker, they are small and portable, and they need to be recharged every so often. Different sizes of trackers are also available so that they can be attached to just about anything. You can attach one to a car, give one to your child, or fix one to your pet’s collar. More so, when people purchase GPS trackers for their own possessions, they often place trackers on new cars, equipment or other highly expensive goods.

The cost of a GPS tracker in comparison to a new car, which is easily stolen and never seen again, is minuscule. The potential money, time, and stress you save from using GPS trackers far outweigh the initial cost of the product. It is also important to note that some insurance companies may reduce costs if you have a GPS tracker in your vehicle.