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Cargo theft is a major concern for logistics companies operating in Mexico. Criminals use various tactics to steal cargo, including hijacking, robbery, and burglary. However, over time, an especially sophisticated and challenging method has emerged: the use of signal jammers. These signal jammers are used to disrupt GPS and cell phone signals, which makes it difficult for authorities to track stolen cargo.
Although a growing problem, several methods can help prevent these frequency jamming devices from causing issues for your company. Here’s an overview of how jammers work, why they’re so popular, and what you can do to prevent them from disrupting your supply chain.
How signal jammers function
Signal jammers are electronic devices that emit radio signals that interfere with communication systems, such as GPS signals, cellular networks, Wi Fi networks, and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. Criminals use jammers to block or jam the signals of tracking devices installed in cargo trucks. This makes it difficult for authorities to identify a shipment’s actual location.
Any kind of cargo can be stolen via jammers, including high-value loads and small shipments. Electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automotive parts tend to be especially desirable, as these products can be repackaged and sold on the black market. While this is certainly a problem for supply chains, it’s also an issue for consumers–stolen loads can affect the pricing and availability of much needed goods.
In recent years, the use of jammers in cargo theft has become an especially serious problem in Mexico. In fact, from January to June 2024, 64% of theft events in Mexico involved signal jamming equipment. Although illegal, the use of these devices is none-the-less growing across organized crime groups. For this reason, the Mexican government is taking steps to further criminalize and penalize their use.
The Mexican government’s fight against signal jammers
To combat the threat of signal blockers, the Mexican government has taken steps to regulate the use of these devices. On January 25, 2020, the Anti-Jammer Law came into force in Mexico, which was promoted by the National Association of Vehicle Tracking and Protection Companies (ANERPV). This law allows authorities to impose penalties of 12 to 15 years in prison on individuals who manufacture, market, or otherwise use–or make available to use–jammers.
The Anti-Jammer Law is a significant step towards improving cargo security in Mexico. However, it is not enough to rely solely on legislation to combat this threat. Logistics companies also need to take proactive measures to protect their cargo, such as by using multiple tracking devices, investing in physical security, and constantly monitoring their shipments for any disruptions.
Of course, security management is no easy task, and it’s easy for criminals to take advantage of unprepared supply chains. Fortunately, by working with Overhaul, you’ll have the tools you need to combat signal jammers, better prepare against cargo theft, and more.
How Overhaul helps combat signal jammers in Mexico and beyond
Overhaul’s global visibility provides companies with logistics and security support across Mexico. Using advanced technology, we can monitor cargo in real-time, detect anomalies, and alert authorities in instances of theft or tampering. Our global intelligence also empowers company with theft insights across the country. Additionally, our law enforcement connections enable us to work with authorities to identify and respond to cases of cargo theft involving jammers.
Our capabilities in Mexico are especially noteworthy, as our depth of data is without comparison. Our quarterly reports document ongoing theft patterns and emerging behaviors in order to keep shippers prepared. We also perform risk evaluations to help shippers understand the risks involved in their unique routes. And because we’re device agnostic, you can integrate our software with any device, which allows for the tracking data you need, when you need it.
Of course, our capabilities don’t start and end in Mexico, nor are they limited to preventing signal jammers. We can help companies transport goods from the United States to Europe, Latin America, and beyond. We also work with companies to identify and meet their unique needs. This can involve anything from product quality support to risk prevention or insurance.
Our tiered offerings also ensure you have the tools you need at a price you can afford. In short, although jammers remain a threat in Mexico, Overhaul’s technology and services are making this threat easier to navigate.
Read more about Mexico theft patterns and reach out to us today to learn how we can support your risk management program.
