Root COMPLETE noob... need help!

[floorlizard]

okay! My company has decided to force us to install an app that will track me via GPS throughout my work day. to make the matter even more messed up, it is being installed on my PERSONAL galaxy note 2014 edition. I have researched options to make it impossible to be tracked via GPS through this new app. However, it is looking more and more necessary to root my device for these purposes. I am completely clueless in regards to this matter. Can any body instruct me on the potential negatives and pitfalls of rooting my device?

 

[vsanch24]

The two negatives:

1. Tripping the Samsung Knox Software (their version of an enterprise security management suite. Kinda think the old BlackBerry Eco System companies could implement.) If their GPS Tracking software is aware of Knox and requires a clean Knox implementation, rooting the device will give you away. Having tripped Knox will not break the device...just Knox and Knox software friendly software will know what you did and typically prevent use of the App. The App will also report back why it cannot be used to the system administrators.

2. Bricking the device. However, this option is least likely as long as you read, read, and re-read the method you are going to under take so you fully understand the steps.

Sounds as if you need to pay $100 and get a lawyer to draw up something preventing them touching your personal equipment. Unless they are going to reimburse your purchase cost so it becomes their asset.

 

[floorlizard]

Can you think of any other way than rooting to circumvent this, vsanch?

 

[Deleted User]

The solution is simple. Remove your personal device from.their network. Of course this means you will not be able to access your files, etc. From it, but problem solved. If they want you to use a tablet, make them provide one.

 

[mplevy]

If you want a device to use for work (or they want you to have one), have them supply it. Sure, that means they can track you but it's then THEIR device and they can do what they want with it. And, if you're logging hours for work, they probably expect you're working so why be worried about tracking?

 

[jamjr74]

I would think all u need to do is turn your location off?

 

[The_Chief]

The permissions on the app will most likely require location tracking... which means when the app is started (probably at startup), it will automatically turn location ON. That said, I would not put up with a company insisting on installing tracking data on MY property. They can provide me with a tablet to use for business, and I will transfer all my work files to it. My 2¢