location tracking
It might sound like something from a spy film, but every time you use a mobile phone network, it’s possible to trace your location.
Location tracking works by tracing the radio base station (phone mast) that’s providing the service. If only one base station is in range, you can be traced to a circular area around the mast. If more than one base station is in range, your signal can be ‘triangulated’ for a much more accurate position.
This tracking technology can be used for many purposes. The emergency services can use it to locate people who’ve had an accident and don’t know where they are. Some services work out where you are, to give you personalised weather forecasts or information about local shops.
But, because it’s a way of finding out personal information about somebody, it can be abused.
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blocking location searches
All calls and mobiles can always be traced by the police and emergency services.
Everyone else is obliged, under the industry code of practice, to send regular texts to your phone if it’s the subject of a location service. But this might not always happen.
location tracking – dangers
When a location is requested, the person being located has to give their permission. There should also be frequent, random text reminders that the location service is still in place. There are, however, some potential threats.
location tracking – talking points for children
It’s important children are aware of the dangers posed by location tracking. Here is some advice which will lessen the risks.
where to next?
For more about how the industry code of practice protects you against unauthorised location services, see here.
