Recently, the question “Can someone track your car without your consent?” is becoming increasingly relevant. With the proliferation of GPS technology and the miniaturisation of tracking devices, the possibility of unauthorised vehicle tracking is a growing concern for many UK motorists.
So, to answer the question in short: yes, someone can track your car without your knowledge or consent, but no, they’re not allowed to.
Below, we outline the various aspects of vehicle tracking, including how it’s done, why someone might do it, and how you can protect yourself.
What Is Vehicle Tracking?
Vehicle tracking is when someone uses GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to monitor a vehicle’s location, movement, and status. This technology has many legitimate uses, such as fleet management and vehicle recovery after theft. However, it can also be misused for unauthorised surveillance.
How Does GPS Vehicle Tracking Work?
GPS tracking devices use a network of satellites to determine the precise location of a vehicle. This information is then transmitted to a receiver, which could be a phone or computer. Modern GPS trackers are small, easy to hide, and can provide real-time GPS location data. These qualities make GPS trackers powerful tools for those who wish to track a vehicle without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
Is it Legal to Track Someone’s Car Without Their Consent?
Generally, it’s illegal to track someone’s vehicle without their knowledge or consent. However, there are some exceptions:
- Parents tracking their children’s vehicles (if the child is a minor)
- Employers tracking company-owned vehicles (with proper disclosure)
- Law enforcement agencies with proper warrants
It’s important to note that even in these cases, there are strict guidelines that must be followed. For example, an employer tracks the business vehicles their employees use. The employer must:
- Inform employees the vehicles are being tracked
- Get employees’ consent to be tracked
- Track the vehicles during working hours only
The crux of the matter in this example is that the information gathered by the GPS tracker counts as personal data. This means data laws, like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act, come into play. Employers must store and manage the data responsibly.
Can Someone Put a GPS Tracker on Your Car Without You Knowing?
Unfortunately, yes. Modern GPS trackers are small enough to be hidden in various locations on a vehicle without being easily noticed. Some common hiding spots include:
- Under the bumper
- In the wheel wells
- Behind the dashboard
- Under the hood of your car
- Inside the car’s interior panels
These covert GPS trackers can be difficult to spot, especially if you’re not actively looking for them.
Why Would Someone Want to Track Your Car?
There are several reasons why someone might want to track your car without your consent:
- Jealous partners or ex-partners
- Stalkers or other malicious individuals
- Private investigators (although they typically need permission)
- Thieves planning to steal the vehicle
- Employers monitoring company vehicles (which is legal in specific circumstances)
How Can You Tell if Your Car Is Being Tracked?
If you suspect someone is tracking your car without your consent, there are several signs to look out for:
- Unexplained battery drain
- Interference with your car’s electronics
- Unusual data usage on your car’s built-in SIM card (if applicable)
- Strange noises or vibrations from unexpected areas of the car
- Dirt or smudges in unusual places, indicating someone may have been tampering with your vehicle
How Do You Find a Hidden GPS Tracker on Your Car?
If you think someone has put a GPS tracker on your car without your knowledge, here are some steps you can take to find it:
- Conduct a visual inspection – Check obvious hiding spots like under the bumper, in wheel wells, and under the hood.
- Use a bug detector – These devices can detect the radio frequencies emitted by many GPS trackers.
- Check for magnetic attachments – Many covert GPS trackers use magnets to attach to the vehicle’s metal surfaces.
- Look for any new or unfamiliar wiring – If a tracker is hardwired into your car’s electrical system, you might notice new wiring.
- Consult a professional – If you’re still unsure, consider having a professional sweep your vehicle for tracking devices.
How Can You Protect Your Vehicle from Unauthorised Tracking?
To keep your car safe from unauthorised tracking, consider the following steps:
- Regularly inspect your vehicle for any suspicious devices or tampering.
- Install a GPS detector in your car to alert you to the presence of tracking devices.
- Keep your car in a secure location, such as a locked garage, when not in use.
- Be cautious about who has access to your vehicle.
- Consider investing in security systems for your vehicle, such as alarms or immobilisers.
- If you suspect your car is being tracked illegally, contact the police immediately.
What Should You Do if You Find a Tracker?
If you discover a GPS tracker on your vehicle that you didn’t install or authorise:
- Don’t remove it immediately – it may be evidence if you decide to involve law enforcement.
- Document its location with photos and notes.
- Contact the police to report the unauthorised tracking.
- Consider consulting with a solicitor about your legal options.
- Have a professional remove the device to ensure it’s done safely and without damaging your vehicle.
Can Advanced Sweeping Help?
Advanced Sweeping specialises in technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM), including vehicle bug sweeping services. Our team of experts can thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any unauthorised tracking devices, providing you with peace of mind and ensuring your privacy.
Our vehicle sweeping service includes:
- A comprehensive physical inspection of your vehicle
- Use of professional-grade electronic detection equipment
- Checking for both GPS and GSM-based tracking devices
- Inspection of your vehicle’s onboard systems for any suspicious software or modifications
- A detailed report of our findings and recommendations
Stopping Vehicle Tracking in Its Tracks
While the thought of someone tracking your car without your consent can be unsettling, being informed and proactive can go a long way in protecting your privacy. Regular checks, awareness of the signs of tracking, and professional sweeping services can help ensure that your vehicle remains secure.
Contact Advanced Sweeping Today
For professional assistance in detecting and removing unauthorised tracking devices from your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Sweeping. Our expert team is here to help you maintain your privacy and security in an increasingly connected world.