The emergence of GPS jammers and cell phone jammers poses a significant threat to the integrity and functionality of these vital GPS tracking devices. These devices can interfere with the real-time fleet vehicle tracking systems, causing headaches for fleet owners striving to maintain seamless fleet tracking and control.
While the use of GPS jammers is strictly prohibited and uncommon in the United States, their potential presence still poses serious risks and challenges for those operating in the transportation industry. It is crucial for fleet owners to be aware of these potential threats and take necessary measures to safeguard their GPS tracking systems from any interference.

• GPS Jammer: What It Is & How It Works
• GPS Jammer Devices: Appearance & Features
• GPS Tracking Jammer Legality: Is it Illegal?
• GPS Jammers: Heightened Security Concerns
• GPS Jammers: Impact on Fleets Explored
• GPS Jammer Mitigation: Effective Solutions

GPS Jammer: What It Is & How It Works

A GPS Jammer is a compact, yet potent radio frequency (RF) transmitter designed to disrupt legitimate communication devices such as cell phones, GPS receivers, Wi-Fi networks, and toll readers. This device functions by overwhelming the low-power microwave signals broadcast by GPS satellites with stronger, albeit shorter-range, radio signals. By creating a “noise” interference, the jammer tricks GPS tracking systems into believing that the GPS signals are unavailable, effectively blocking their reception. This technique is commonly known as “spoofing”. GPS jammers are not only illegal but also pose a significant threat to public safety, as they can disrupt emergency services and other critical communication systems. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the nature and risks associated with GPS jammers and avoid using them.

GPS Jammer Devices: Appearance & Features

GPS jammers, designed by various manufacturers, exhibit diverse shapes, sizes, and dimensions, rendering them challenging to detect within a vehicle. Typically, these blockers operate within a short range, enabling them to plug into power sources such as cigarette lighters or iPhones, efficiently disrupting GPS signals transmitted from trackers mounted in the cockpit. With the ability to mask your vehicle’s location, GPS jammers offer a discreet yet effective solution for maintaining privacy and security. Discover more about GPS asset tracking and how it can enhance the utilization of your valuable equipment and resources by downloading our informative eBrief.

GPS Tracking Jammer Legality: Is it Illegal?

GPS jamming devices are indeed illegal in the United States and Canada. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) strictly oversees radio communication devices and has previously intervened against the use or sale of signal jamming equipment. Despite these strict regulations, GPS jammers and signal blockers can still be conveniently purchased online, posing a significant threat to public safety and lawful radio communications. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid purchasing or using such devices to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard the integrity of radio frequencies.

GPS Jammers: Heightened Security Concerns

Fleet owners must be vigilant and aware of any modifications drivers make to their vehicles, especially when it comes to the installation of anti-tracking devices. These devices can introduce vulnerable hardware into the vehicle, providing hackers with an entry point to access and tamper with the onboard telematics systems. This includes critical components like navigation, positioning, and more, which are integral to the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle.
Furthermore, GPS jamming devices can have a profound impact on public safety. They interfere with the signals used by emergency services, potentially causing delays in response times and increasing the risk of accidents and incidents. Additionally, in the event of a stolen vehicle, GPS jamming devices can make it much more difficult for law enforcement to locate and recover the missing vehicle. This not only impacts the company’s scheduling and operations but can also have a significant financial impact if the vehicle cannot be recovered.

GPS Jammers: Impact on Fleets Explored

For fleet managers, the importance of monitoring driver behavior and vehicle health is paramount. However, GPS jammers pose a significant threat to this critical function, disrupting accurate vehicle tracking and data collection. By preventing the accurate measurement of distance traveled, time on the road, speeding occurrences, and harsh driving instances, GPS jammers can lead to compliance audits, hefty fines, and vehicles that are not properly maintained. This ultimately impacts fleet safety, revenue, and overall operational efficiency. Therefore, fleet managers must be aware of the negative consequences of GPS jammers and take necessary measures to protect their fleets from their disruptive effects.

GPS Jammer Mitigation: Effective Solutions

To mitigate the use of GPS jammers, it is essential to monitor Non-Reporting Unit (NRU) trends. This allows fleet owners to identify potential issues with GPS trackers installed in vehicles, enabling prompt action to address any disruptions. Additionally, it is vital to have a comprehensive understanding of network weaknesses, exposures, and vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit.
Regular IT network maintenance and troubleshooting are also key in offsetting the possibility of data tampering. By establishing a regular schedule for these activities, fleet owners can proactively address any potential security breaches and minimize the risk of future issues.
Moreover, clear communication with employees regarding vehicle usage policies and prohibitions against devices like GPS jammers is essential. This helps to discourage the use of such devices in the first place and ensures that all stakeholders are aligned in maintaining the integrity of the fleet’s GPS tracking system.
Verizon Connect, a leading provider of telematics solutions, offers a platform that provides fleet owners with the visibility they need to mitigate the use of GPS jammers. Our team of passionate professionals stays up-to-date with the latest trends, product features, and industry best practices to ensure that our customers have the most effective tools to safeguard their fleets.