Consumer Watch: Beware of GPS systems…
Consumers are being advised to be cautious of GPS systems sold on low cost websites. Typically any provider offering to provide ‘free tracking’ or a monthly fee less than $20 a month is unlikely to be using a secure server.
The reason for this is that a company simply cannot afford to go below the wholesale rates for a radio network connected to the GPS unit, as well as provide a quality tracking server at the same time.
Some companies have been found to be using quality tracking servers shared with international counterparts in Bulgaria, that have security threats. These are often susceptible for DOS attacks and other forms of malicious hacking. In many cases, a GPS tracking server could be easily compromised and your data could be stolen or deleted.
GPS tracking is not an avenue to scrimp on, and consumers should be careful not to go with providers who sacrifice the key components of a reliable server.
How Does A GPS Tracking System Work?
GPS tracking systems work by a small, non-intrusive unit being installed a vehicle. These units are powered by the vehicle’s main battery and then usually backed up with a light internal battery.
GPS tracking systems then use a combination of satellite positioning technologies and a radio network, to send data to our central server. Our central server then interprets this raw data and produces maps and trackable history logs.
The best part is that these systems also allow you to view reports, including speed, locations, history, parking locations and so forth.
A GPS provider will typically aggregate the whole system in to one for you, that is – the fleet management website, the tracking device, and radio technology subscription, all into one price.
Improving Business Efficiency
For years now, Beakon has been supporting businesses in eliminating waste and raising efficiency. Working to better manage the ‘backend’ of your business – or simply, the bit the customer doesn’t see – is a fantastic way to trim down costs and run a more efficient business, where staff are best using their talents, rather than getting locked up in mundane tasks. This also means cost savings that can be passed on to a customer, or profits that can be used elsewhere.
Providing management, vehicle tracking, and cash solution systems, Beakon has been helping businesses looking to raise ‘lean operations’ where costs and losses are minimised. Our customers, namely directors, managers, and their end staff, have been able to raise profits through trimming expenses, as in many cases the solutions we provide pay for themselves.
GPS Tracking: These units typically pay for themselves after being able to identify unauthorised vehicle use by employees, as well as poor driving habits, such as longer routes being taken. All of these can be identified through our software system provided to clients.
Cash Solutions and Handling: For any business that handles cash, a lot of time is consumed counting cash registers, notes, and coins. By speeding up the process through electronic systems that are affordable, business owners almost always find these units also pay for themselves.
Employee time management systems: By allowing businesses to track those that work in the business, companies no longer have to worry about the issue of employees coming to work late, or going home early. By identifying just one employee who goes home 10 minutes early every week, a cost saving can be found for the business.