GPS trackers – like AirTags – can do a lot of good by communicating your location to your loved ones in real time.
However, they can also be used by criminals trying to learn people's habits, making them an easier target for crime without the victim knowing a tracker has been attached.
“How easy it is these days to put an AirTag in someone's purse, stick it under their car, drop it in their seat, anything like that just to be able to track someone is pretty scary,” said Jamie Bond Ciancio, Director of Advancement at Place of Hope. “They can follow you and pursue you, create a lifestyle and understand the inner workings of your lifestyle.”
Florida Senate Bill 758, which makes it a felony to use a tracking device without the person's knowledge, took effect Tuesday.
“We have seen a number of cases over the years involving domestic issues, such as an ex-husband installing a tracker in a car. We have had a few victims of stalking cases,” noted Sgt. Kevin Jaworski, who works in the criminal investigation division of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.
“One of the reasons we don’t see it is because it often goes undetected. Some of these devices are so small,” said Martin County Sheriff William Snyder. “If you throw it in the car, how will they ever know? You may never know.”
According to the new law, this type of crime is punishable by up to five years in prison.
“This gives us an improved ability to prosecute individuals who engage in illegal tracking,” Sgt. Jaworski explained. “Illegally tracking an individual not only violates their individual rights to privacy, but also poses a security risk to them.”
Some believe this law will effectively minimize the use of hidden trackers on unsuspecting people.
“If you see a few cases coming out now where people are being charged with a crime, I think you'll see a decrease in those types of cases once the word gets out,” Sgt. Jaworski said.
“I think it makes people think twice about doing something shameful,” Ciancio added.
Others aren't so sure.
“Would someone who wanted to stalk someone by illegally installing a tracking device think twice about it now? “I’m not sure, but I know that if we catch them, they’ll have about five years in prison so they can do a lot more than think twice,” said Sheriff Snyder.
Despite the change in the law, authorities say vigilance is still key to safety and recommend anyone who suspects they are being followed or monitored with a tracking device they are not comfortable with to alert local law enforcement.
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Originally published: October 1, 2024 at 2:00 p.m
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