Ford (and probably Chrysler and GM) Are Spying On Us Too

Ford Exec: 'We Know Everyone Who Breaks The Law' Thanks To Our GPS In Your Car

And what makes Ford think the government is not hacking their data?

GPS jamming and blocking devices

There are a variety of methods that have been used to try and disable, confuse or otherwise render a GPS tracking device useless. Some options are more expensive than others but all have a common objective to block or interfere with the GPS signal.

It is more common to try and block the signal from the GPS satellite since this signal is much weaker than the signal being transmitted by the device. How a GPS unit is tampered with also depends on how secretive it needs to be. Obviously if there is no need for secrecy then someone may just physically destroy the device to render it inoperable!

1. GPS jamming gadgets – Commonly sold online, popular models simply plug into a vehicle’s 12v adapter (similar to the one pictured) and interfere with any GPS radio signal within a range of about 30ft.
2. Metal shields – A cheaper, non-powered option is wrapping the device in a metal sleeve such as brass mesh or a lead camera film protector. It has been reported that car thieves have been known to transport stolen cars fitted with GPS tracking units inside refrigerated trucks to block the GPS signal.
3. GPS spoofing gadgets – These gadgets can send a fake radio signal that overrides the signal being transmitted by the GPS device and reports a fake location. These are not only illegal but can be dangerous to other GPS users, particularly those used in commercial transportation.
4. Mobile phone jammers – Many GPS devices report real-time tracking, which uses a wireless carrier to communicate this information to the person doing the tracking. A cell phone jammer can be used to block the signal being transmitted to the wireless carrier preventing status updates being sent. Unlike a GPS jammer this also prevents mobile phone use.

While it only may be a small percentage who attempt to tamper with a legitimate GPS tracking device it is important for users to at least be aware of the methods that GPS jammers may try and use. This can help you to deal with any potential problems this may cause. In next week’s post we will look at five ways you can beat GPS jammers.