Technical Surveillance Countermeasures: GPS & Asset Tracking Detection
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) devices—commonly known as GPS trackers—allow for the real-time monitoring of vehicles, assets, and individuals. A GPS Tracking Detection Investigation is a specialized operation designed to identify, locate, and neutralize unauthorized tracking hardware.
Tracking technology has evolved significantly. Modern devices range from standard magnetic-mount transmitters to sophisticated micro-circuitry integrated directly into a vehicle’s OBD-II port, internal wiring, or mobile electronics. Regardless of the device’s complexity, a comprehensive sweep by ICS can identify the hardware and, in many cases, provide forensic data to help identify the party responsible for the deployment.
GPS Tracking and the Law
The legal landscape surrounding GPS tracking has tightened significantly. In many jurisdictions, installing a tracking device on a vehicle or person without explicit consent is no longer just a privacy violation; it is a criminal offense.
-
Stalking & Harassment: Many states now classify unauthorized electronic tracking under stalking or harassment statutes.
-
The "Owner" Rule: Generally, you may only track a vehicle if you are the legal owner or lessee. Tracking a vehicle owned by another person without their knowledge can lead to felony or misdemeanor charges.
-
Employment Law: Employers are increasingly required to provide written notice before tracking company-owned vehicles, and tracking an employee’s personal vehicle is strictly prohibited in most states without informed consent.
States with Specific GPS & Tracking Statutes
| Strict Consent Required |
Notable Owner Exceptions |
Specific Notice Laws |
|
California (PC § 637.7) |
Texas (Penal Code § 16.06) |
Connecticut (Gen. Stat. § 31-48d) |
|
Florida (Statute § 934.425) |
Illinois (720 ILCS 5/21-2.5) |
Delaware (Code tit. 19, § 705) |
|
Michigan (MCL § 750.539l) |
Pennsylvania (18 Pa. C.S. § 5704) |
New Jersey (N.J. Stat. § 2C:33-30) |
|
Virginia (Code § 18.2-60.5) |
Minnesota (Stat. § 626A.35) |
New York (Civil Rights Law § 52-c) |
Comprehensive Detection Capabilities
ICS technicians utilize professional-grade electronic countermeasures to sweep for:
-
Active & Passive Trackers: Real-time cellular units and "store-and-forward" loggers.
-
Integrated Micro-Circuitry: Chips hidden within vehicle ECUs or consumer electronics.
-
Hybrid Surveillance: Covert audio recorders, microphones, and "bugs."
-
Visual Intrusions: Hidden cameras (Infrared, Spread-Spectrum, and Burst transmission).
Our Investigative Process
-
Consultation & Needs Analysis: A confidential assessment of your threat profile.
-
Strategic Action Plan: Customized sweep protocols for your vehicles, home, or office.
-
Execution: On-site technical sweep using advanced spectrum analyzers.
-
Reporting: Thorough documentation of findings and forensic evidence.
Why Choose ICS?
-
Operating Since 1967: Decades of experience in high-stakes investigations.
-
Expert Personnel: Backgrounds in military intelligence and law enforcement.
-
Global Resources: Domestic and international reach for any location.
-
24/7 Availability: Investigators are ready whenever you need them.