A vehicle tracking specialist is calling on the Government to protect firms against unscrupulous telematics operators.

Navman Wireless believes the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) should establish a TrustMark initiative for the industry.

The call comes at a time of severe economic instability, which threatens to put thousands of UK companies out of business.

Tony Neill, executive vice-president, said: “Vehicle tracking technology can save companies thousands of pounds a year, boosting fleet efficiency and productivity, but businesses need help identifying reputable providers.

“The BERR’s TrustMark scheme has helped empower businesses and consumers to raise standards in the building sector.

"The vehicle tracking industry, which has attracted unscrupulous businesses looking to make quick, easy money at the expense of unsuspecting and badly-advised customers, could benefit in a similar way.

“The advanced technological nature of the telematics industry would necessitate a different scheme structure and require a unique set of Government endorsed standards.”

Approved scheme operators would have to meet specific criteria ranging from hardware quality and server hosting standards to adequate IT support.

Mr Neill added: “Vehicle tracking from a reputable provider offers fleets one of the most logical solutions to cutting costs.

"But until such time as a scheme guaranteeing standards is introduced, the critical message for businesses is for them to do their homework before investing large sums of money.

"Failure to do so could lead to grave financial consequences.”