Can an OBD Tracker be blocked?

A car is a valuable asset that serves both work and leisure purposes. However, car thieves are aware of this value and seek to steal cars without paying for them. Since the introduction of modern motor cars, criminals have been quick to exploit the opportunity for theft. To safeguard your vehicle, it is advisable to invest in a GPS car tracker.

It is crucial for you, as a responsible car owner, to ensure that the car tracker is always active, even when the vehicle is parked securely in a garage. Criminals may attempt to interfere with the GPS signal of the OBD tracker, leading to concerns about whether a OBD tracker can be blocked.

What is an OBD Tracker?

There are three main types of GPS trackers: hardwired, wireless, and OBD devices. While wired and wireless are common, the OBD tracker stands out for its unique features and simplicity.

An OBD GPS tracker is a device that plugs directly into a vehicle’s OBD port, a standard feature in modern vehicles for diagnosing issues and accessing data.

This type of tracker utilises the vehicle’s onboard computer system to collect information, such as real-time location using GPS technology, speed, fuel consumption, engine health, and driving habits like harsh braking or rapid acceleration.

 

Can an OBD Tracker Be Blocked?

By placing a GPS car tracker in a metal box, it can be blocked. To avoid this, it is advised to have a professional installer hide the tracking device on the vehicle discreetly. Quick vehicle recovery is possible if thieves remain unaware of the tracker. However, as thieves are aware of this trick, insurance companies may mandate the use of a tracker for high-end vehicles such as Range Rovers or Jaguars. Car tracking technology is continuously updated to thwart blocking and disabling attempts.

 

What Can Block an OBD GPS Tracking Device?

Experiencing a sudden loss of mobile phone signal is a common frustration for many individuals, but it is becoming a less frequent occurrence in today’s world. Similarly, GPS tracking devices can also be blocked by jamming devices, which emit white noise radio signals on the same frequency as GPS satellites to disrupt signals to tracking devices and navigation systems.

It is important to note that GPS Jammers are illegal to purchase openly and can result in severe penalties, including up to 2 years in prison. However, their effectiveness is limited due to the availability of advanced tracking devices like the WeTrak Pro+, which GPS, and GSM technology to resist jamming attempts.

 

Is There Any Reason Why You May Want To Block A OBD GPS Signal?

Criminals can covertly place an inexpensive tracking device, such as an AirTag, in a personal vehicle to later find and steal it. Drivers may want to keep their location hidden in this situation. Commercial drivers using fleet vehicles with tracking may disable the signal if they aren’t following company rules, although some devices can block signal interference. It’s crucial to be aware that blocking GPS signals is illegal in some places, so it’s best to verify regulations beforehand. Law enforcement uses signal-blocking detectors to combat car theft.

 

Parked Car Theft

Cars can be stolen not only from private premises but also with the use of the right equipment by nearby criminals. By blocking the signal from the key to the car as the owner walks away, the car can remain unlocked and be easily entered. Thieves may disconnect the battery to prevent a GPS tracker from working, but devices like the WeTrak Pro have an integral backup battery and emit unplug detection that would alert you if this were to ever happen.

 

How To Tell If A GPS Signal Is Being Blocked?

You can protect against jamming by purchasing a WeTrak Device that offers anti-jamming technology. It may seem paranoid, but if in doubt there’s a simple check that all drivers can do: Check the vehicle’s satellite navigation through the WeCar App. If it shows an incorrect location, then the location is most likely being jammed.

Relay Theft

Car thieves utilise a tactic known as relay theft to steal vehicles unnoticed by their owners. By intercepting the signal from the key or fob using a device, they can unlock the car and drive off undetected. To prevent this type of theft, owners can use a Faraday cage, such as a metal-lined pouch, to block the key signal from reaching outside sources. By blocking the GPS signal, thieves are able to evade detection by satellites, especially with lower-end units.

 

Protect Against Theft With A High Quality Car Tracker

The moral of this story is that when buying a car tracker subscription always purchase the best unit available. Check with a trusted supplier who offers free fitting and protects your Land Rover, Jaguar or prestige sports car with the very latest in vehicle security. Can a car tracker be blocked? You bet it can, so don’t give car thieves the opportunity.

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Find the Perfect Tracker

Incorporating the latest GPS technology, our range of car trackers are the most effective anti-theft devices available on the market. With car theft on the rise, you can enjoy peace of mind and security by protecting your vehicle with these state-of-the-art GPS trackers.

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