An alcohol ankle monitor—also known as a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor)—is an ankle bracelet consisting of two small boxes secured by a strap and worn 24 hours a day. A SCRAM monitors perspiration on the skin for alcohol content—similar to the way a breathalyzer test measures blood alcohol concentration. A SCRAM is tamper-resistant and if a person attempts to remove or tamper with it, the tampering will be detected and reported through the remote monitoring service.

A person who is out of jail on bond awaiting a DUI/DWI trial may be ordered to wear a SCRAM. And a person who has been convicted of a DUI/DWI criminal offense may be ordered to wear a SCRAM for some period of time—as a condition of probation, for example. A person convicted of a DUI/DWI criminal offense may also volunteer to wear a SCRAM in an effort to reduce the severity of the sentence.

In California, a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) device may be used as a condition of bail, probation, or parole for individuals charged with or convicted of DUI/DWI offenses. The use of SCRAM is intended to monitor an individual's alcohol consumption and ensure compliance with court-ordered abstinence from alcohol. If a court orders the use of a SCRAM device, it typically occurs in cases with repeat offenders or when alcohol dependency is a concern. Tampering with or attempting to remove the SCRAM device can result in penalties, including potential revocation of bail or probation and additional legal consequences. In some instances, volunteering to wear a SCRAM device may be seen as a proactive measure by the defendant to demonstrate sobriety and responsibility, which could potentially influence sentencing decisions. The specific terms and duration of SCRAM monitoring are determined by the court on a case-by-case basis.