Photo: Amidst Fears of Being Kidnapped, Mexicans Turning to Human Tracking Implants "Just in Case"
With travel through Mexico seemingly more dangerous than ever, and kidnappings at a high, many are looking for ways to keep an eye on those making the trek across the country.
This is where tracking devices come it, but keeping a hold on something like that can be difficult, especially in dangerous situations when it is most necessary.
The latest safety technology being used is under-the-skin tracking devices that use radio frequency identification chips to relay signals to a GPS unit allowing the wearing to be located.
Though the added security is putting people’s minds a bit more at ease, not everyone can afford them. Each device costs about $2,000 upfront, and a subsequent $2,000 a year after that. This fee however, is down from three years ago when it cost $4,000 upfront and $2,200 each year.
Though sales for the product are up, researchers say they’re not realistic since they require a signal to communicate with satellites or cell networks, and reception way not always be available.
Still, over 10,000 people have reportedly gotten the implants, with others not going that far, but still investing in other tracking technology.
With kidnappings up 317 percent in just five years, even the middle class are now saving for these devices as a precautionary measure they hope they will never need.
