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 Iowa, SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) devices are used as a part of the state's monitoring options for individuals who have been charged with or convicted of DUI/DWI offenses. The use of a SCRAM device can be ordered by the court as a condition of bond or probation. It is designed to ensure that the individual abstains from alcohol consumption by measuring the alcohol content in their perspiration. If a person attempts to tamper with or remove the SCRAM device, it will be detected and reported, which can lead to consequences such as revocation of bond or probation, or additional penalties. Additionally, individuals in Iowa may voluntarily choose to wear a SCRAM device to demonstrate their commitment to sobriety and potentially mitigate the severity of their sentence. The specific regulations and application of SCRAM devices in sentencing or bond conditions can vary based on the circumstances of the case and the discretion of the court.