GPS is one of the most advanced technologies for real-time location information.

Fleet managers use it to improve operational efficiency, logistics companies use it to monitor routes and fuel usage, and anyone using trailers can leverage GPS for asset protection.

Yet not all GPS tracking is legitimate or even legal. If you believe that a GPS tracker has been placed on your vehicle or trailer without your consent, removing and disabling it is essential.

Learning how to detect GPS tracking devices helps bolster your privacy and prevent unauthorized tracking, and you can even protect your organization from corporate espionage.

Protect your assets and increase security using the methods below.

Methods to Detect a GPS Tracking Device

Malicious actors use GPS tracking for various purposes. Someone may want to track you because they want to know when you’re absent from a specific location or area.

For example, if you drive away from your home or office, that could prompt a criminal to enter the property, knowing they won’t be disturbed.

Vehicle and equipment thieves can also use tracking to determine routes used by your vehicle(s). If you use vans or trailers, for example, trackers can tell a criminal where those assets are likely to be and when they’re unmonitored.

You may even have business competitors who want details on your cargo routes or how many clients or customers you’re visiting.

The good news is that there are several ways to check for unwanted GPS devices. 

Scanners can detect unusual wavelengths, while a physical examination can quickly reveal equipment that should not be there. Here are some of the most reliable methods for detecting GPS trackers.

Using a GPS Detector or RF Scanner

GPS detectors search for radio frequencies (RF) that your vehicle (or other asset) should not be producing.

You don’t need to find a specialist retailer, and they cost anything from $20 to well over $100.

The best GPS detectors or RF scanners look for multiple frequencies, rather than just one. When using a scanner, remember that the GPS device could be:

• Under the vehicle

• Inside a compartment

• Hidden between panels

• Near a power source

• Under fabric or even inside seat padding

Some scanners come with a connected mobile app to record the date and results of scans.

Checking for Unusual Wiring or Devices in the OBD-II Port

Some of the best GPS tracking devices connect directly to a vehicle’s OBD-II port. If you don’t usually use this port, you may not check here before driving away.

The OBD-II port is usually used for diagnostics — it’s what a mechanic plugs their diagnostic tools into to gather information from your vehicle.

Use your vehicle’s manual to find out exactly where your OBD-II port is. It could be:

• Under the steering wheel

• Under the dash on the passenger’s side

• Near the center console panel

• Under the hood

Any device in the port or protruding wiring could indicate a tracking attempt.

Scanning for Bluetooth and Cellular Signals

In addition to scanning for RF signals, you can also check for unusual Bluetooth or cellular signals emanating from your vehicle. Many GPS trackers use cellular or Bluetooth wavelengths to send information back to a device, software, or tracking system.

Some vehicles have built-in GPS trackers or WI-FI hotspots, which typically use cellular data. You may need to disable this function to scan accurately for unusual signals.

Using a Professional Bug Sweep Service

If you suspect unauthorized tracking related to high-security risks or situations involving corporate espionage or legal disputes, consider investing in a professional sweep. 

There are several benefits to using a professional service:

• Professionals know how to detect all types of GPS tracking devices.

• They know where trackers can be hidden.

• They use advanced equipment and tools.

• Everything is documented, which may be essential for corporate situations.

Properly documented detector scans can serve as evidence in legal proceedings.

High-profile individuals who are at risk of stalking or extortion should probably invest in a professional bug sweep as a priority measure.

How to Remove and Disable a GPS Tracker

Detecting a GPS tracking device is just the first step. You also need to remove or disable the tracker without damaging your vehicle.

Steps to take once you’ve identified a tracker include:

• Take photographs from several angles in case you need to get the authorities involved.

• Physically remove the device if possible:

• Magnetic devices should pull away with a little pressure.

• Cable-attached devices might require cable snips, but be careful not to scratch your car or the tracker itself.

• If you can’t remove the tracker, get professional assistance.

• If the device has an on/off switch, turn it off.

• If not, place it in a neutral location, such as a corporate head office, and ensure your firm’s security personnel are informed.

• Discuss your next steps with your superiors and relevant authorities.

• If you’ve reported the tracking as a crime, you’ll likely need to keep the tracker as evidence.

When the tracker’s battery runs down, it should stop submitting data. A professional may be able to help you disable the device if it’s unclear whether the tracker is on or off.

Disrupting GPS Signals

You might think that the quickest way to foil a bad actor who’s tracking you is to jam or disrupt the GPS signal. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.

GPS jammers are devices that block the signal from the tracker or corrupt the signal to the point that it’s unusable.

Because jammers can interfere with GPS technology at airports or other critical infrastructure, they can cause serious problems.

Using a GPS jammer can get you ten years in prison and a fine of up to $112,500. Avoid this type of action at all costs.

Reporting Unauthorized GPS Tracking

You should always report personal tracking without your consent to the police. Take as many photos of the tracker as possible.

Note the date you first suspected you were being tracked, as well as when you found the device.

Don’t dispose of the tracker, but remove it from the vehicle and contact the police to determine your next steps.

In cases of corporate surveillance, take guidance from your organization’s legal and security teams.

Preventing Unauthorized GPS Tracking

Whether you’ve found a tracking device or you're simply worried about the prospect of being surveilled, preventing unauthorized GPS tracking is essential.

Naturally, you want to avoid becoming a target for bad actors who place devices on your vehicle.

But what about making sure your legitimate GPS devices are tamper-proof?

Using GPS Jamming-Resistant Devices

GPS jammers and disrupters are illegal, but criminals can use them to intercept your tracking information.

They can then spoof the data, stealing your accurate tracking info and replacing it with unusable data.

Invest in secure GPS trackers that utilize advanced encryption and multiple satellite connections to reduce the risk.

Storing Your Vehicle in a Secure Location

Avoid parking on the street if you can, and refrain from leaving your vehicle in unsecured locations for extended periods.

If you use a public parking lot, for example, try to park near a CCTV camera.

That way, if you find a tracker has been attached while you were away from the vehicle, the authorities should be able to obtain relevant footage.

Locked home garages and secure public parking are the safest locations to avoid unauthorized GPS tracking and protect assets from thieves.

Employing Professional Security Measures

Businesses that cannot risk unauthorized tracking, such as those handling highly sensitive cargo or working with high-profile individuals, can invest in anti-tracking technology.

While jamming is illegal, some smaller, industry-specific, short-range devices can be deployed to prevent GPS trackers from working effectively.

Firms can also improve security, such as increasing monitoring in fleet parking garages.

When to Seek Expert Assistance

GPS tracking without consent may expose your location, violate your privacy, and put your business assets at risk.

You should remain vigilant and conduct periodic checks for unusual devices or signals.

Caution is especially important if you use trailers and other easily accessible assets, which may be unsecured during the working day.

Remember, if you find a tracker, contact the authorities for the best, most accurate advice.

You can also seek professional advice if you can’t find a tracker that you’re confident is present.

Investing in LandAirSea for Tracking Protection

LandAirSea (LAS) works with businesses across various industries to provide tamper-proof, secure tracking devices.

Our trackers, such as the LandAirSea 54, are dust-proof and water-proof and feature exceptional battery life.

Plus, LAS uses advanced encryption and other security features to protect your tracking data from interception by malicious actors.

You can speak to the LAS team about any aspect of GPS tracking, whether you’re concerned about how easy it is to track your assets or looking to invest in effective, real-time location tracking for your business.

Protect Yourself From Unwanted Tracking

Unauthorized GPS tracking is unethical and, in many cases, illegal.

Employers can only track employees with consent and within the remit of their jobs, without facing potential fines for breaching data protection and privacy regulations. 

Even law enforcement professionals need to have carefully worded warrants before utilizing GPS trackers.

In the famous case of United States v. Jones, the police were found to be trespassing upon private property by tracking an alleged criminal’s vehicle outside the specifications of a limited warrant.

If you believe you’re being tracked without your consent, follow the above steps to detect and remove tracking devices.

For expert advice on all aspects of GPS tracking, including secure devices that provide real-time monitoring, contact LandAirSea.