Tamper Prevention in Telematics Devices: What Rental Companies Need to Know

Tony Tye

Telematics has become a cornerstone of modern fleet management by helping rental businesses track utilization, recover stolen assets, and proactively plan for field service. But as with any technology installed on customer-owned or rented equipment, there’s always one big question: What happens if someone tries to interfere with the device?

While terms like “tamper protection” get thrown around often, they can paint an inaccurate picture. What rental companies actually need is a clear understanding of how telematics systems behave in the real world: what they can detect, what they can’t, and how they help prevent theft or misuse.

Here’s a practical look at what “tamper prevention” really means—and how your telematics platform supports you when something goes wrong.

Harness Disconnect

Most telematics devices, including the TP2 units used by many rental operations, come equipped with harness disconnect detection. This isn’t tamper-proofing—but it is a critical way to stay informed when something interrupts the flow of power or information.

A harness disconnect alert may occur if:

• Someone intentionally cuts or unplugs the device’s wiring.
• A mechanic accidentally disconnects the wrong connector during maintenance.
• A wire shorts out or loses power during normal shop activity.

In any of these cases, the device notifies the system that it’s no longer receiving the power it needs, giving you visibility into potential issues before they become bigger problems.

The device can't prevent someone from touching it, but it can alert you when something isn’t right.

Tow Alerts

Some devices go a step further with a powerful tool for theft prevention called movement alerts. Here’s how it works:

• If the equipment is not running, but it suddenly starts moving, the telematics device flags the activity.
• This is a common indicator of unauthorized relocation, especially after hours.
• Thieves often winch equipment onto a trailer without starting it, which means traditional engine-based alerts won’t help.
• A movement alert at 2 a.m. is a strong sign that someone is relocating your asset and it’s time to act.

This type of theft detection dramatically increases the odds of recovering stolen equipment quickly.

Why Would Someone Unplug a Telematics Device?

Intentional disconnection isn’t always malicious, but it does happen. Common reasons include:

1. Attempts to avoid reported usage hours

Some end users may suspect that unplugging the device prevents the hour meter from updating, letting them exceed contractual usage limits without being charged. (It doesn’t work, but it’s certainly been tried before.)

2. Attempts to hide machine movement

Similarly, some may unplug a telematics device to try to move the machine offsite undetected.

3. Shop or field techs disconnecting it accidentally

Troubleshooting fuses, replacing parts, or performing electrical work can accidentally interrupt power to the device.

In all of these cases, harness disconnect alerts help you stay ahead of issues—whether intentional or not.

Why This Matters for Rental Companies

If theft occurs, your ability to respond quickly makes all the difference. (Similarly, if a machine is moved outside of a geofence without approval or used over your contractual billing limits, it’s time for a quick and honest conversation with your customer.) A strong telematics program doesn’t eliminate every risk, but it does give you the real-time insight needed to act decisively, coordinate with your team, and safeguard your fleet investment.

Connected Assets make it easier for you to stay informed, prepared, and ready to protect your equipment with confidence. Ready to see how InTempo MX can help you significantly increase your visibility, improve your response times, and proactively manage your fleet? Contact us for more information or a quick personalized demo.