A GPS tracker is a recognised and trusted aftermarket security option. But can they be used in any context? Or are there laws that prevent its possible misuse?
In this blog, we will share details regarding the question ‘Are GPS trackers legal in the UK? Rules and regulations explained’.
The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise and continue rising with advancements in technology.
That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.
How exactly does a GPS tracker work?
A GPS tracker for a car works by utilising a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. The tracker, a small device installed in the vehicle, contains a GPS receiver that listens for signals from these satellites.
Each satellite transmits precise timing information and its orbital position. By receiving signals from multiple satellites (at least four are needed for accurate 3D positioning), the tracker can calculate its own precise location on Earth through a process called trilateration.
This involves measuring the time it takes for signals to arrive from each satellite, which translates to the distance from the tracker to each satellite. With distance information from multiple satellites, the tracker can pinpoint its latitude, longitude, and altitude.
This location data is then transmitted, often via cellular networks, to a central server or a user’s smartphone app, allowing real-time tracking of the vehicle’s movements, speed, and location history.
Can you track a vehicle without GPS?
Yes. While GPS is the primary vehicle tracking method, alternatives exist. Below are some brief examples of alternative vehicle tracking solutions.
Cellular tracking uses cell tower signals for approximate location, but accuracy is lower than GPS.
RFID employs radio waves and readers for short-range tracking, suitable for limited areas.
Dead reckoning uses vehicle sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes to estimate position, but accuracy degrades over time.
Wi-Fi tracking utilises Wi-Fi hotspots for location estimation in urban areas, but range is limited. This can be an issue in more rural areas without strong Wi-Fi.
ANPR systems capture number plates for tracking vehicle movements at specific locations, but don’t provide real-time tracking.
These methods often have limitations in accuracy, range, or real-time capabilities compared to GPS. Sometimes, a combination of methods provides a more robust solution. The choice depends on the specific needs and application.
Are GPS trackers legal in the UK? Rules and regulations explained
GPS trackers are legal in the UK, but their use is subject to certain rules and regulations, primarily centered around data protection and privacy. This means that their use isn’t legal in every situation. It is important to know when you can and can’t use a GPS tracker. Below is the key information you need to know:
General Principles:
- Lawful Use: You can track your own vehicle without any legal restrictions. If it’s a company vehicle, you can track it with the employee’s knowledge and consent.
- Transparency: Openness is key. Inform individuals if they are being tracked. Covert tracking is generally illegal unless there’s a strong justification, such as preventing serious crime.
- Data Protection: The use of GPS trackers falls under data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. This means you must process data fairly, lawfully, and transparently, with a specific purpose, and keep it secure.
Specific Scenarios:
- Personal Use: Tracking your own car, bike, or belongings is generally unrestricted.
- Company Vehicles: Employers can track company vehicles for legitimate business purposes like optimising routes, monitoring driver behavior, and preventing theft. However, they must:
- Inform employees about the tracking.
- Have a clear policy on data usage.
- Avoid tracking outside of working hours unless there’s a strong reason.
- Tracking People: Tracking individuals without their consent is illegal, except in very limited circumstances like law enforcement with a warrant.
- Children: Tracking your own children is generally acceptable, but older children should be informed and their privacy respected.
- Hidden Trackers: Placing a tracker on someone else’s vehicle without their knowledge is illegal and can lead to prosecution.
Key Legislation regarding GPS trackers
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): This EU regulation, still applicable in the UK, sets strict rules for data processing, including consent, purpose limitation, and data security.
- Data Protection Act 2018: This UK law complements the GDPR and sets further rules for data protection.
- Human Rights Act 1998: Article 8 protects the right to privacy, which can be relevant in tracking cases.
What are the consequences for using GPS illegally?
Illegal use of a GPS tracker involves breaching data protection laws, which can result in hefty fines. In cases of harassment or stalking, illegal tracking can lead to criminal charges.
If an organisation uses GPS tracking illegally, the misuse of tracking data can result in significant reputational damage.
How to prevent illegal GPS use
If you are using trackers for business, have a written policy explaining why, what data is collected, how it’s used, and who has access to it. Ensure that any employee using the tracked vehicle is aware and consenting of this beforehand.
Avoid tracking outside of working hours or for non-business purposes. This may vary between company vehicles and their uses, however. Finally, store tracking data securely and limit access to authorised personnel.
By being aware of the legislation, and what is considered legal use of a GPS, you can ensure that your use of GPS trackers is legal and ethical.
GPS trackers for your vehicle
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Tints:
Wrapping and PPF:
- Paint Protection Film — PPF
- Exo Shield Window Tint
- Black Packs
- Dechroming
- Custom Decals
- Commercial Wrapping
- Vehicle Wrapping
Interior customisation/ technology:
- Starlights
- Apple Play/ Android Autos
- Android Screen Upgrades
- Parking Sensors
- Reverse Cameras
- Rear Seat Entertainment
Wheel refurbishment:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
In this blog, we aimed to have provided insight into the question ‘Are GPS trackers legal in the UK? Rules and regulations explained’. Whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
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