Are We Too Reliant On GPS?

RedEaredSlider writes "A new report from the Royal Academy of Engineering in London suggests developed nations have become too reliant on GPS systems. The report from the Academy focuses on global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and their vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities include deliberate or accidental interference, both man-made (such as jamming) and natural (such as solar flares). While most people equate GPS systems with the tiny screens which get drivers from point A to point B, the report says society's reliance on the technology goes well beyond that. The Academy says the range of applications using the technology is so vast that without adequate independent backup, signal failure or interference could potentially affect safety systems and other critical parts of the economy."

Comments

The only solution is to move back into caves

[spoon00]

We are also too reliant on electricity, computers, cars, airplanes, ships,...

Re:Young'ns don't understand.

[tnk1]

In my day, we did have maps, but all they were good for was for finding where the world ended and where the giant sea monsters were located.

Per Submission or Per Word?

[macraig]

I wonder whether IBTimes pays RedEaredSlider per submission or per word for his work?

In his brief time on Slashdot, RedEaredSlider has submitted many dozens of articles; every single one of them references IBTimes and only IBTimes. I could even forgive a little Roland-Piqepaille-like self promotion, but this pattern of behavior screams paid promotion.

I ask a question in rebuttal: has Slashdot become too reliant on corporate media promoters?

Re:Yes absolutely

[countertrolling]

We used a compass, road map, and a watch, in an open cockpit flying through a snow squall.. at night.. and we liked it!