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Is it possible to falsify data on GPS Information Page - GPSmap 76

Former Member over 11 years ago

Hi all,

I'm involved in the mineral exploration industry in Ontario, Canada and am wondering about a few things. We have a client that has come claims under dispute and we're wondering what evidence the disputant may have. In particular, it is common practice for claim stakers in Ontario to photograph their GPS Information Page screen on the GPS to show features in the field and associated "correct" location, date, time, etc. The GPS in question is a GPSmap76. I know it's possible to move the time around (and the date by a day or so) by playing with the local time zone, but was wondering if there are easy hacks or ways in Simulation Mode to get the GPS to display vastly inaccurate dates/times (off by a few days or more).

Is this is something that could be easily achieved by having a laptop in the field and using a cable and some programming along with the Garmin API / DevKit? I'm essentially curious in how trustworthy the information photographed on a GPS screen can be.

Any information you could provide (even along with examples, etc.) would be most helpful.

Lastly, should you be concerned that I'm up to something unethical, I can assure you that I'm not myself. I'm a registered P.Geo. in Ontario (member number #2288) and am bound by ethical guidelines in my organization and would be risking my license to practice and my career doing something of the sort. We're assisting a client in a dispute case and I'm wanting to have all of our ducks in a row prior to the hearing.

Please PM me if you wish to discuss this issue privately rather than put this information out to the general public.

Thanks,

Steve

0 Dugiflopper over 11 years ago

You probably need to ask this in a letter to Garmin. This is just a user forum, and mostly devoted to Garmin fitness devices. You might get some reasonable responses here, but also try here http://forums.gpsreview.net/

0 Former Member over 11 years ago

IMO the basic issue here is accepting a digital photo as proof. Digital images are easily faked or manipulated hence the term "Photoshopped". In fact some camera manufacturers have a special module/firmware/etc that adds a digital signature to every image making any manipulation detectable. These cameras are used by law enforcement etc so images will stand up in a court of law.

Now as to GPS yes it is possible to fake satellite signals and hence coordinates. All you have to do is do a Google search to see research on that. As you noted it is also possible to change a units configuration to make it show what you want.