14 DAY TRIAL // A new mobile phone tracking service will be launched in the UK to allow parents to track their tearaway teenagers.
The service, called Phonesitter works by using the mobile networks to track a mobile phone. When a mobile phone is switched on, it communicates to the mobile phone masts in its area. The mobile phone providers then provide map coordinates for the position of the mobile phone. The results are simple to view (and print) online; for users who have an urgent need and aren't near a computer, tracking can also be managed easily from another mobile using SMS.
Rafael Fernandez, joint owner of Phonesitter.co.uk, says: "This is an answer to the dilemma of many parents who want to give their kids more freedom but need the reassurance of knowing exactly where they are without having to nag them with phone calls and texts".
Phonesitter is not intrusive. It is not possible to track any phone without the prior knowledge and authorization of the phone holder, and once authorized, all registered phone holders are informed that they may be tracked, and may withdraw from the service at any time by a simple text message to Phonesitter.
The basic monthly subscription for the service is GBP ?5 and covers tracking of up to five phones. Annual pre-payment includes 12 months membership and 20 locates. The service will launch on the 13 August, and will work with Orange, T-Mobile, O2 and Vodaphone networks.