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Blog Editor’s Note: Another reminder post from GPS Patron, folks who are really in a position to know.
And we appreciate them linking to one of our posts in theirs!
Thanks to member Mitch Narins for pointing this one out!
In-Car Jammers are Killing GNSS Integrity
Personal data protection or GNSS integrity, which is more important?
Average citizens will definitely choose personal data.
People should not be blamed for not wanting to share their location data with a third party. Jammers are often used to block the operation of GNSS-based tracking systems, and as a result, cause significant damage to critical infrastructure. Despite the growing challenge, Policymakers in most countries are closing their eyes to the upcoming GNSS interference problems.
As things stand, the use of GNSS jammers is prohibited in all developed countries. Despite this, anyone can buy a jammer, even on Amazon for as little as 15 dollars: https://rntfnd.org/2021/12/21/jammer-on-amazon-only-14-98-great-stocking-stuffer/
Why drivers use GNSS jammers
We conducted a brief survey and found out why people use jammers in cars:
- Fraud against fleet management or other tracking systems. Most commercial vehicles come equipped with control systems for monitoring fuel consumption and distance traveled. Some drivers try to block the operation of tracking systems to use the vehicle for personal needs as well as draining the fuel.
- Privacy concerns.
- Fraud against a distance-based road user charging system (GNSS based).
- When renting cars for trips outside the service area. Some car rental services have restrictions in terms of the territory of service. Some drivers use GNSS. jammers to block the tracking system to drive unpunished in prohibited areas.
- Fraud against a distance-based vehicle insurance system.
Consequences of Using In-Car GNSS Jammers
Moving jammers pose the biggest threat to GNSS integrity. In the case of stationary interference, it is relatively easy to determine and take measures to mitigate the effect. An in-car jammer can appear anywhere at an unpredictable time with a lot of power and then disappear. When a problem is incidental in nature, it is very difficult to fix.
Many of our customers complain about jammers in cars. So what kind of problems do they cause?
