People often confuse a SCRAM bracelet with a regular GPS ankle monitor. A GPS monitor tracks where a person goes. A SCRAM bracelet tracks alcohol use. SCRAM stands for Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor, and it is usually worn on the ankle to detect alcohol through the skin at scheduled intervals throughout the day and night. Courts often order one in DUI cases, domestic violence cases, or probation matters when staying alcohol-free is a condition of release. A GPS monitor, by contrast, is mainly about location and movement, not drinking.

In practice, a SCRAM bracelet can be part of bail, probation, or a pretrial release order. If the device reports alcohol use, tampering, or missed monitoring, that can trigger a violation hearing, tighter release conditions, or time in custody. It can also shape plea negotiations and sentencing because it gives the court an ongoing record of compliance or noncompliance.

For an injury-related claim, a SCRAM bracelet can matter if alcohol use is disputed after a crash. A monitoring record may support or undermine a person's credibility, especially where the timing of drinking is an issue. In Hawaii DUI cases, courts may also use other alcohol-control tools, including the ignition interlock device required under Hawaii's Ignition Interlock Program, administered through the Administrative Driver's License Revocation Office.