Can Stolen GPS Systems Be Tracked?

Despite GPS units being used to determine your location, most GPS systems cannot be tracked if stolen from you.

A GPS (Global Positioning System) is a navigation device that is becoming popular with the general public. There are handheld units and units directly built into automobiles. There are also GPS units that can be used for hiking, backpacking and other types of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, the increasing popularity of GPS units has also led to increased rates of theft.

Most GPS Units Cannot Be Tracked

While GPS units can determine a person's location on the Earth, most are not equipped to track a person's position. A tracking service is required for a system to be tracked or found on the Earth's surface.

New GPS Tracking Services

While tracking devices have been installed in other technological units for years (rental cars, cell phone parental controls, inmates' ankle shackles, for example), there had not been a demand for tracking of GPS units. However, the increased amount of theft of personal navigation units has changed the minds of some GPS companies. Some manufacturers are including tracking chips in newer GPS units. These tracking units are likely to become more available in the future.

Online Software-Based Tracking Options

There are also online software tracking options available for a small annual fee. GadgetTrak is an example of this type of service. You install tracking software on your GPS unit, which can be activated and used to track your unit if it is stolen.

References

• "Time" Magazine; Why You Can't Track Your Stolen GPS; Anita Hamilton; April 2008
• Gadget Trak