In my last article, I talked about the benefits of using GPS devices, trackers, apps, air tags, and monitors for things such as finding “lost” items, keeping up with children, or supporting the independence of older family members. As with many advances in technology, the upside of its use, also comes with a downside. For instance, the GPS navigation in your car, if not updated, could lead you to a dead-end road, or as happened with one homeowner — led drivers seeking the local courthouse, to their home instead. In this article, I will focus on four potential risks about which you should be mindful in your continued use of this and similar technologies, and what you can do to minimize them.
Invasion of Privacy: Potential of Being Tracked Without Consent
Even though trackers such as Apple’s AirTag and Life360’s Tile are designed to help you find misplaced items, they can also be used for unauthorized surveillance. Apple has implemented alerts such as “AirTag Found Moving with You” and “Unknown Accessory Detected Near You” to curb misuse.
What You Can Do:
Update firmware and tracking apps regularly. Inspect your belongings regularly. Use tracker detection apps and limit app permissions. For your children, control their app settings from your parent account. Restrict location sharing to trusted family and run periodic scans on school bags. Teach your children to report alerts that they hear. Additionally, consider disabling location history and opting out of the sale of your data.
Data Exploitation: Location Data Collected and Potentially Sold
According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (eff.org) your location data isn’t just a pin on a map. It’s a powerful tool that reveals far more than most of us realize. It can expose where you work, where you pray, who you spend time with, and, sometimes where you seek healthcare. In recent years, a number of states have enacted data privacy laws and rules to give consumers better control over the collection and use of their data. These rules require companies that collect and sell user data, to inform you of this and allow you to opt out of having your data used in this way.
What You Can Do:
Consider opting out of data sharing and limit app installations to reputable sources. Periodically delete the location history on your devices. Register your children’s trackers to your parent account. Life360 has strengthened its Tile device to include user control over data sharing through built-in privacy options. An in-app toggle allows a simple way for you to opt out of data sales or sharing.
False Sense of Security: Over-Reliance Can Dull Situational Awareness
Over time, heavy use of tracking and similar devices can cause us to be too complacent. We start assuming that our items or loved ones are always locatable through technology. That is until the devices fail when they are most needed. It’s important for us to keep in mind that these technologies are not foolproof. They can fail due to a number of reasons, including limitations of the specific device, battery issues, tampering, or signal interference. When we overly rely on these devices, we risk diminishing our own vigilance/situational awareness in everyday scenarios such as traveling, commuting, or parenting. There really is no technology that can be a substitute for thoughtful awareness.
What You Can Do:
Maintain/practice situational awareness in daily activities and have backup location methods/strategies. Set realistic expectations for your children and encourage manual check-ins.
Stalking & Abuse: Misuse by Partners or Criminals via Hidden Trackers
Some devices have been weaponized in disturbing ways, from stalking individuals and tracking cars to more violent crimes. Victims have reported trackers found in personal belongings or on vehicles, leading to dangerous situations including, but not limited to stalking, domestic abuse, suspected sex trafficking and premeditated vehicle theft.
What You Can Do:
Teach everyone in your circle to respond quickly to tracker alerts. Secure accounts with strong passwords and two factor authentication. Report the presence of suspicious devices to authorities. Limit who can track your child’s device and teach safety routines if trackers are found.
In Summary:
While GPS and other location-tracking technologies offer powerful benefits, they also carry risks as articulated in this article. However, with knowledgeable use, and the implementation of protective settings and safeguards, you can better balance safety with convenience. Staying alert and proactive allows you to harness these tools to your benefit while also keeping control of your personal security.
Courtesy, Karen Clay