Is it possible to cancel a GPS tracker on company cars? Find out the details

Is it possible to cancel a GPS tracker on company cars? Find out the details

Disabling a GPS tracker on a company car is a common question, especially when it comes to balancing employee privacy with corporate surveillance. While GPS tracking devices on company vehicles are becoming more common, it’s critical to understand when and how it’s possible to legally disable or block these devices. In this article, we’ll explore the situations in which this is possible, the safe methods for doing so, and the legal implications to consider.

Cancel company car GPS tracker

Table of Contents

Why is GPS used in company cars?

The installation of GPS trackers in company cars is an increasingly common practice, especially in sectors where vehicle fleet control is essential. These devices allow companies to monitor the location, route and uptime of their vehicles, helping to optimise routes, reduce costs and improve operational efficiency.

However, although this technology is useful for the company, some employees feel that the use of GPS in the company car can invade their privacy, especially if the vehicle is also used outside of working hours. This is where the question arises about the possibility of deactivating or disabling the GPS tracker to ensure respect for employee privacy.

Furthermore, the collection of real-time location data may be seen by some employees as an excessive measure of surveillance, which can lead to conflicts in the workplace. For this reason, it is important for companies to manage these devices responsibly and transparently.

The question of whether it is legal to disable a GPS device in a company car depends largely on the current regulations and policies of each company. In general, if the vehicle is owned by the company, the company has the right to monitor its use, provided the employee is properly informed.

Under data protection legislation in Europe, employees must be informed of the presence of GPS and the purpose of its use. However, disabling a GPS tracker without authorization can be construed as a breach of contract, as it could be interfering with the company's security and efficiency policies. Additionally, in some cases, employees could face penalties if they disable GPS without the company's express consent.

Exceptions and privacy rights

It is important to note that employees have a right to privacy, especially outside of work hours. For this reason, some companies limit the use of tracking devices to work hours or allow employees to turn off the device outside of work hours. If the company does not provide this option, the employee could file a request to override the GPS outside of work hours.

Methods to cancel a GPS locator

There are several ways to block or interfere with the signal of a GPS tracker , although not all of them are legal or safe. Below we describe some of the common methods, highlighting its operation and the associated risks.

1. Use of GPS signal inhibitors

Signal jammers, or GPS jammers, are devices designed to interfere with tracking signals. These devices emit a signal that prevents the GPS from receiving the vehicle's location. However, the use of jammers is prohibited in most countries because they can interfere with other devices and emergency services, as well as being easily detectable.

2. Turn off the GPS device (if the company allows it)

Some companies allow their employees to turn off GPS outside of working hours. If this option is allowed, the employee can disable the GPS tracker without legal repercussions. However, it is essential that the employee checks with the company and makes sure that this action is allowed.

3. Storing the car in a place without GPS signal

Another option to temporarily block the GPS signal is to store the car in a covered location, such as an underground garage, where GPS signals cannot reach. However, this method only has a limited effect and is not recommended as a long-term solution.

Risks and legal considerations

Attempting to disable a GPS tracker on a company car can have several legal and professional consequences. In many countries, the use of GPS jammers is illegal and could lead to penalties. In addition, by disabling the GPS without authorization, the employee could be in breach of the employment contract or the company's security policies.

Companies often consider GPS tampering a serious offence, as the device is installed to ensure route compliance and improve fleet safety. Tampering with these systems can also affect the company's insurance coverage in the event of theft or accident, which can lead to serious repercussions.

Legal consequences of deactivating a GPS without permission

Deactivating a GPS device without authorization could be considered a serious misconduct. Depending on the current labor laws, the employee could face sanctions, including possible termination of his or her employment contract. For this reason, it is recommended to always act in accordance with company policies.

Legal alternatives to GPS cancellation

Rather than trying to disable GPS without permission, there are legal alternatives for those seeking privacy in their company car use. Below, we explore some options that might help resolve disputes in a legal and respectful manner.

1. Direct communication with the company

The first step is to talk to the company and express concerns about privacy and GPS use outside of work hours. Many companies are willing to negotiate solutions, such as disabling GPS after work hours or using a less intrusive monitoring system.

2. Request for use of a private car outside of working hours

If the company provides a car for exclusive use during working hours, the use of a personal vehicle outside of these hours can be agreed upon. This option allows the employee to avoid privacy conflicts and the use of tracking systems in their free time.

Conclusions

While disabling a GPS tracker on a company car may seem like an option for those seeking greater privacy, the legal and employment risks of doing so without permission can be serious. In most cases, it is preferable to find legal solutions that balance company oversight with the employee's right to privacy.

Direct communication with the company and respect for internal policies are key to avoiding conflicts. Ultimately, the use of a company car involves certain rules, and tampering with tracking devices can have both legal and contractual consequences. It is essential that both companies and employees find a balance that guarantees security, efficiency and privacy.