10 Common GPS Tracking Myths Busted

Common Myths About GPS Tracking Devices

Car owners worry that GPS trackers invade privacy or constantly drain batteries, but those are myths born from old tech and social media half-truths. 

After testing 10 leading GPS trackers, including SpaceHawk, Konnect, Vyncs, and Bouncie, across 3,000+ miles of daily driving, we discovered how modern tracking works quietly, securely, and with full control in the driver’s hands. 

Real user reviews on Amazon and Reddit echo the same truth: today’s devices protect families and vehicles without compromising privacy. 

In this fact-based guide, we’ll break down the most common GPS tracking misconceptions, revealing what’s real, what’s rumor, and how to use GPS responsibly and safely.

Why GPS Tracking Devices Spark So Many Myths

Most myths around GPS tracking stem from fear, not facts. Early systems were clunky, tied to law enforcement or government use, and gave people the impression that “Big Brother” was always watching. Even today, a Pew Research study found that 79% of Americans worry about how companies use their location data, fueling ongoing skepticism about modern trackers.

The truth? Devices like SpaceHawk and Konnect OBD2 GPS tracker have flipped that narrative. They give users, not corporations, complete control over data access and sharing.

Real-world users on Amazon and Reddit mention using SpaceHawk to locate stolen cars within hours or monitor teen drivers without privacy breaches. The real issue isn’t tracking, it’s misunderstanding. People fear GPS devices because they associate them with surveillance, not security. 

Reddit User Review: It's actually exactly what I needed, it has an app to track all trackers that I have, and it's magnetic so I can stick it in unnoticeable places. And it's pretty cheap (got a good deal on prime day). Was really happy with these, thought I'd share if anyone else is looking for something like this. r/ConstructionManagers

Once drivers see how these trackers prevent theft, reduce insurance claims, and add peace of mind, the myths start to lose their power.

Top 10 Myths About GPS Tracking Devices (and the Truth Behind Them)

From “GPS trackers invade privacy” to “these devices drain your battery,” misinformation has created real confusion about how tracking works. Modern GPS technology, used in compact units like SpaceHawk and Konnect OBD2, is secure, affordable, and surprisingly easy to manage. Below are the 10 most common GPS tracking myths, and the facts that set the record straight. Click any myth to jump directly to its section.

1. Myth 1: GPS Trackers Invade Your Privacy
2. Myth 2: GPS Tracking Devices Drain Car Batteries
3. Myth 3: GPS Devices Are Only for Large Fleets
4. Myth 4: GPS Trackers Are Too Expensive
5. Myth 5: GPS Trackers Don’t Work in Remote Areas
6. Myth 6: Installing a GPS Tracker Is Complicated
7. Myth 7: GPS Trackers Reduce Vehicle Performance
8. Myth 8: You Don’t Need GPS If You Trust Your Drivers
9. Myth 9: Smartphone Apps Work Just as Well
10. Myth 10: GPS Data Isn’t Secure

Each myth below breaks down where the misconception started, what the technology really does.

Myth 1 – GPS Tracking Invades Your Privacy

The biggest misconception around GPS tracking is that it’s a “Big Brother” tool that spies on your every move. 

In reality, modern GPS trackers are built around data privacy, encryption, and user consent, not surveillance. Every data packet transmitted is encrypted end-to-end, meaning no one can view your real-time location without authorized access.

“GPS tracking under consent-based frameworks like the GDPR and CCPA gives individuals full control over their data, what’s collected, how it’s used, and when it’s deleted.” In simple terms, these laws make unauthorized tracking illegal.

Devices like SpaceHawk let users choose when tracking is active, who can view reports, and even offer opt-out or stealth modes to maintain privacy. The “spy” narrative persists because early tracking systems lacked these safeguards, but today’s devices are designed with compliance at their core. When managed transparently, GPS tracking empowers users with protection, not intrusion.

Myth 2 - GPS Trackers Can Be Used to Spy Illegally

Companies and people can abuse any tool, but illegal spying is exactly that, illegal. Under privacy frameworks and most state laws, tracking someone without consent or outside permitted use cases is prohibited; employers who track employees generally need a legitimate business reason and clear notice. 

If you’re managing a fleet, adopt an explicit policy: state when tracking runs (work hours only), who can see data, retention length, and disciplinary limits. For parents, disclose monitoring to older teens and limit “always-on” modes to safety scenarios. 

Legal resources and state guides explain the boundary between lawful monitoring and illegal spying, follow them and document consent. (Fisher Phillips)

Quick practical rule: Always get vehicle-owner consent in writing; keep an audit trail of who accessed location logs and why.

Myth 3 - Trackers Drain the Car Battery or Damage the Vehicle

Modern trackers are engineered to be power-efficient. Most OBD-powered or hardwired telematics devices draw very low current while a vehicle is off; typical persistent draws are measured in tens of milliamps, not amps, and many units include sleep modes to avoid battery drain. 

Plug-in OBD units draw power from the vehicle while the engine runs and use minimal standby power when parked. 

magnetic battery-powered units run on their internal battery, so they don’t tap the car battery at all. Follow the manufacturer's installation guidance and use a sleep or low-power mode if your vehicle sits for long periods. 

For warranty concerns, manufacturers vary; check your OEM warranty and prefer plug-and-play OBD or non-invasive magnetic installs if you’re worried about service claims. 

Pro tip: If battery drain appears, rule out alternator or parasitic loads first; trackers are usually the last suspect.

Myth 4 - GPS Is Only for Big Fleets or Businesses

Small businesses and families get huge value from the same tech fleets used. Trackers help parents monitor teen driving, protect seniors, and recover stolen cars. Affordable consumer plans now exist, options start at pocket-friendly monthly fees and plug-and-play OBD devices mean no professional install. 

Devices such as Konnect (OBD plug-in) and compact magnetic trackers like SpaceHawk prove the point: you don’t need a fleet of 100 vehicles to justify tracking. 

Real-world use cases: a two-vehicle landscaping company uses routing and geofences to squeeze one extra job into a day; a family recovers a stolen vehicle within hours using a magnetic tracker. (Konnect GPS)

Who benefits most: small-business owners, parents, caregivers, and owners of high-value assets.

Myth 5 - GPS Tracking Is Too Expensive

Costs vary, but useful tracking rarely breaks the bank. Many consumer-grade trackers offer plans in the ballpark of $8–$40/month depending on features and update frequency. 

Factor the ROI: faster recovery after theft, lower idle time, reduced fuel waste, and better maintenance scheduling. 

Example quick ROI: if a $25/mo tracker prevents one theft claim or saves 2% fuel per month on a small fleet, payback can happen within months. Several vendors also bundle a free initial year or low start fees, compare plans before buying. 

Simple ROI calc (example):

• Monthly tracker cost: $25
• Estimated fuel savings per vehicle: $12/mo
• Theft-recovery/insurance savings (annualized): $100/12 ≈ $8/mo
• Net monthly benefit ≈ $20 - payback within first year on device cost in many cases.

Myth 6 - GPS Devices Are Hard to Install or Use

Modern trackers are plug-and-play or require a single magnetic mount. Choose by need: 

• OBD devices plug into the diagnostic port and start reporting in minutes.
• magnetic units mount discreetly and run on internal batteries.
• hardwired installs take longer but offer permanent power. 

Follow this 3-step setup checklist for a frictionless start: 

1. Choose the right device (OBD vs magnetic)
2. Install and confirm live updates via the app
3. Set two or three critical alerts (movement, geofence, low battery). 

For fleets, pilot one vehicle for 30 days and lock the settings into an admin profile before scaling.

Myth 7 - GPS Signals Don’t Work in Remote Areas

GPS satellites cover the globe, satellite positioning works nearly everywhere, but data transmission depends on the tracker’s comms method. 

Cellular (GSM/LTE) trackers are inexpensive and excellent in populated areas. In very remote regions, satellite or hybrid trackers (satellite for uplink, GPS for position) keep you connected at higher cost. 

Many trackers also cache location data offline and upload when connectivity returns, so “out of range” doesn’t always mean “no record.” Choose a satellite-capable device for work far off the grid; choose cellular for urban/suburban use.

Decision guide: Mostly in-coverage? Choose cellular. Regularly off-grid? Budget for satellite/hybrid.

Myth 8 - Smartphones Do the Same Job

Smartphones provide basic location functions, but they’re not a full substitute for dedicated trackers. Dedicated units offer continuous background tracking, tamper resistance, long battery life or vehicle power, and features built for recovery (stealth mode, immobilization hooks in some systems). 

Phones suffer background-location limits, app-permission fragility, and battery drain, plus users can disable or uninstall apps.

If you need reliable, persistent tracking, particularly for asset recovery or fleet telematics, choose a dedicated GPS unit. For casual location sharing, phones are OK; for operational reliability, they fall short.

Practical split: use phone apps for temporary sharing; use dedicated trackers for ongoing monitoring and recovery.

Myth 9 - I Don’t Need GPS Because I Trust My Drivers / Family

Trust and verification aren’t mutually exclusive. Tracking supports safety, scheduling, and objective coaching, not surveillance. Use GPS to confirm completed jobs, shorten response times, and coach drivers with data-driven feedback. 

For families, tracking solves emergencies and verifies well-being without micromanaging daily life. Avoid distrust by publishing a clear policy: what’s tracked, when tracking runs, who sees data, and how long it’s stored. That transparency keeps trust intact while giving you the operational benefits.

Communication template: “We use GPS for safety, routing, and recovery. We’ll only access data for safety or operational needs.”

Myth 10 - GPS Trackers Are Easy to Hack

No device is immune to attack, but reputable trackers use encryption, authenticated APIs, and regular firmware updates to reduce risk dramatically. Treat vendor security as a procurement check: ask about encryption in transit and at rest, firmware update practices, and SOC/ISO certifications. 

Many modern platforms also use two-factor admin logins and immutable access logs. Acknowledge historic research that exposed vulnerabilities in some systems, but prioritize vendors that publish security practices and patch frequently. Keeping firmware up to date and restricting admin access closes most practical attack paths. 

Security checklist: require TLS encryption, confirm update cadence, mandate strong admin controls, and review access logs monthly.

How GPS Tracking Actually Works 

Every GPS tracker works through one simple process: satellites send signals, the tracker receives them, and your app turns that data into a live location. 

1. Satellites in orbit: Around 30 GPS satellites constantly broadcast time and position signals down to Earth.
2. Your tracker’s receiver: Devices like SpaceHawk or Konnect OBD2 read signals from at least four satellites to calculate exact latitude, longitude, and speed within a few feet of accuracy.
3. Data transmission: The tracker then sends this data through a cellular or satellite network to a secure cloud server.
4. The app interface: Your phone or web dashboard displays that live feed, complete with maps, routes, alerts, and history.

The best part? The process happens in seconds, and you don’t need to do anything manually. Advanced devices cache data offline if the connection drops, then automatically sync once coverage returns.

This clear system keeps you connected anywhere, letting you track vehicles, assets, or loved ones in real time without any technical setup.

Privacy & Data Security Best Practices

Choosing a GPS tracker isn’t just about real-time accuracy, it’s also about how well your data is protected. Modern devices like SpaceHawk and Konnect OBD2 encrypt every data transmission, but users still need to vet vendors and apply smart privacy habits. Here’s how to stay secure from setup to daily use:

Vendor Security Checklist

Before buying, verify that your GPS provider meets at least these five privacy standards:

1. End-to-End Encryption – Data should be encrypted in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest.
2. Clear Privacy Policy – Vendors must publish what data they collect, why, and how long they store it.
3. Two-Factor Authentication – Your account should require a second verification step for access.
4. Regular Firmware Updates – Look for a public update log or patch notes, proof of active maintenance.
5. Data Ownership Control – You should be able to delete your tracking history anytime.

Real-World Privacy Practices

• SpaceHawk’s user app allows full control over who can view your tracking data, ideal for parents sharing limited access with family.
• Konnect’s enterprise dashboard includes adjustable retention settings so companies can automatically delete old trip logs after 90 days, aligning with GDPR and CCPA principles.
• Best habit: Review app permissions monthly. Revoke any third-party access you don’t actively use.

Final Takeaway

GPS tracking security isn’t automatic, it’s a partnership between vendor protection and user responsibility. Choose devices that are transparent, update frequently, and give you control over your data. That’s the real key to staying safe while staying connected.

Common Mistakes When Using GPS Trackers

Even reliable trackers like SpaceHawk and Konnect OBD2 can deliver poor results when users overlook the basics. These mistakes are common, but easy to fix with the right habits.

1. Ignoring Firmware or App Updates

• Mistake: Skipping updates can cause inaccurate locations or app crashes.
• Fix: Turn on automatic updates. Both SpaceHawk and Konnect release monthly patches that boost accuracy and tighten data security.

2. Poor Tracker Placement

• Mistake: Hiding a tracker under thick metal, in the glove box, or near wiring can block GPS signals.
• Fix: Mount the tracker with a clear sky view, under the bumper, near the license plate, or on the dashboard for portable models.

3. No Geofencing Setup

• Mistake: Not using geofences means missing alerts when a vehicle enters or exits key areas.
• Fix: Use your app’s map to create zones around home, school, or job sites. You’ll get instant notifications when the tracker crosses those boundaries.

4. Overlooking Battery or Power Connection

• Mistake: Portable units die mid-trip, or OBD trackers lose power due to loose ports.
• Fix: Charge portable devices weekly and ensure a snug OBD2 connection. Konnect models automatically monitor voltage and send low-power alerts.

5. Misinterpreting GPS Dropouts

• Mistake: Believing the tracker “failed” when it briefly loses signal in tunnels or garages.
• Fix: Wait a few minutes, data re-syncs automatically when satellites are back in view.

Quick Takeaway: Consistency beats complexity. Keep your tracker updated, charged, and correctly placed, and you’ll avoid 90% of tracking issues before they start.

The Truth About GPS Tracking - Final Takeaway

Modern GPS tracking isn’t about surveillance, it’s about security, safety, and smarter control over what matters most. Whether you’re protecting a family car with SpaceHawk, monitoring teen drivers, or optimizing routes with Konnect OBD2, today’s devices deliver peace of mind backed by real results.

After testing multiple trackers across 3,000+ miles, we’ve seen how accurate alerts, encrypted data, and intuitive apps turn worry into confidence. GPS tracking helps recover stolen cars, reduce fuel costs, and ensure loved ones reach home safely, all without compromising privacy.

Ready to take control of your vehicle’s safety? 

Try the SpaceHawk GPS Tracker, designed for 24/7 real-time tracking, instant movement alerts, and private, secure data storage, so you always know where your car is, and more importantly, that it’s safe.

Key Takeaway: Choose a trusted, secure tracker. Read the privacy policy, enable two-factor authentication, and keep your firmware updated.

Author Disclosure

Written by Ryan Horban, GPS Tracking Expert (15+ Years of Experience)

Over the past 15 years, I’ve helped everyone from parents and pet owners to fleet managers and small business teams choose GPS solutions that actually work.

Whether it’s tracking a car, a child, or an entire fleet, my focus is on simple, legal, and effective setups that protect what matters, without the tech headaches.

I’ve worked hands-on with real users, tested dozens of devices, and know what truly works in the real world.

👉 Connect with me on LinkedIn →

FAQ: Your Top GPS Tracking Questions Answered

Is GPS tracking legal?

GPS tracking is fully legal when used responsibly and transparently. Businesses must inform employees, and parents should notify teens, keeping usage compliant with privacy laws like GDPR, CCPA, or local regulations. Responsible deployment ensures safety without breaking the law, while tracking enhances accountability and protection.

Do GPS trackers need internet to work?

GPS trackers do not require a constant internet connection to determine location because satellites provide positioning data directly to the device. 

Internet or cellular connectivity is only needed for real-time updates or syncing data to apps. Devices like SpaceHawk and Konnect continue logging positions offline and upload them automatically once connectivity resumes, ensuring no trip or route is lost.

How much do GPS trackers cost?

Costs for GPS trackers vary depending on features and subscription plans, with devices starting around $20 and monthly fees typically between $10–$40. Even small investments provide a strong ROI by helping recover stolen vehicles, monitor teen drivers safely, and optimize fleet efficiency.

• Devices start at ~$20
• Monthly plans usually $10–$40
• ROI includes theft recovery, safety monitoring, and operational savings
• Suitable for families, small businesses, and large fleets

Can a GPS tracker drain my car battery?

Modern GPS trackers, including OBD or magnetic devices, draw very little power, usually under 50 mA, and enter sleep mode when idle. Engineers testing SpaceHawk and Konnect confirmed minimal impact on car batteries, even after weeks of parking. Properly installed trackers are safe for long-term use, so vehicle performance and battery health remain unaffected.

In addition, many GPS trackers come with built-in low-voltage protection that automatically shuts off the device if the battery drops too low, preventing any accidental drain. Regular maintenance, like ensuring proper connection and occasional software updates, keeps the tracker efficient without affecting your car’s electrical system. Users consistently report months of worry-free tracking with zero battery issues.

Can GPS trackers work without cell service?

Yes, GPS trackers continue to receive satellite signals and log positions even in areas without cellular coverage. Offline data is stored securely and automatically uploaded when connectivity returns, making trackers reliable for remote travel, rural locations, or regions with weak mobile signals. This ensures complete historical tracking without gaps.

• Tracks location continuously, even without cell service
• Stores offline data securely until upload
• Ideal for remote areas, rural routes, or off-grid travel
• Maintains accurate historical logs for review and safety