IT Forensics · Car

Forensic analysis of vehicle tracking systems (trackers) – Forensic preservation and analysis of retrofitted GPS trackers

In addition to telematics systems integrated by the manufacturer, standalone, retrofitted GPS trackers may also be installed in vehicles, for example as part of fleet management, theft prevention or, in isolated cases, for unauthorised surveillance purposes.

Enquire without obligation

We carry out forensic analysis of both the internal storage of such devices and, subject to the necessary authorisation, the associated cloud platforms.

Why LanCologne?

Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.

The examination is, as a matter of principle, carried out exclusively on a forensic copy, a forensic image or a data source captured in a technically equivalent manner that preserves the integrity of the evidence. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its integrity.

Our services

We identify, secure and carry out a forensic analysis of retrofitted vehicle tracking systems, and document the stored position and movement data in a traceable manner.

Typical areas of application

•Analysis of fleet management and anti-theft trackers
•Detection of unauthorised tracking devices
•Supplementing location history and movement analyses
•Investigation into allegations of surveillance and stalking
•Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
•Cooperation with law enforcement agencies

How a vehicle tracker analysis works

Once the tracking device has been identified and secured for forensic analysis, the stored location data is extracted and, subject to the appropriate authorisation, cross-referenced with available cloud data from the relevant platform.

Why is vehicle tracker analysis relevant in a forensic context?

Retrofitted tracking devices can provide an additional, and sometimes very detailed, movement history, independent of the vehicle systems provided by the manufacturer.

Where there is a suspicion that tracking devices have been fitted without authorisation, analysing the data from these devices may also be relevant to investigating cases of surveillance or stalking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you tell if a tracker has been fitted without your permission?+
This is carried out as part of a thorough physical and technical inspection of the vehicle.
Is tracking data stored locally or in the cloud?+
This varies depending on the device; it is often a combination of both.
Is it legally permissible to secretly attach a tracking device?+
This is governed by the relevant statutory provisions and is assessed on a case-by-case basis; we do not provide definitive advice on this matter in the sense of legal advice.

LanCologne – Vehicle IT Forensics, Cologne

Do you require a professional forensic investigation into the „forensic analysis of vehicle tracking systems (trackers)"? LanCologne can assist you in securing digital evidence to a standard that will stand up in court, as well as in the transparent analysis of relevant vehicle artefacts.

Get in touch now