Cars Are Spying on Drivers – It’s Time to Take Back Control of Our Data Says Scott Allendevaux

Modern vehicles collect vast amounts of personal information, often without our knowledge. Drivers must act to protect their privacy and demand better regulations.

Modern vehicles, equipped with advanced technologies like blind-spot detection and collision avoidance systems, have transformed into data-collecting hubs. With capabilities like geolocation tracking and biometric monitoring, today's cars can gather up to 25 gigabytes of data per hour. While these innovations enhance safety and convenience, they also raise significant privacy concerns.

Scott Allendevaux, a Certified Ethical Hacker and the senior lead of law and policy at Allendevaux & Company, emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing the risks associated with modern automotive technologies. His firm specializes in cybersecurity, data protection, and AI governance, offering guidance to both organizations and individuals on protecting their digital and personal information.

Automobile telematics systems not only record driving behaviors but also transmit this data to third parties, often without the driver's knowledge. For example, General Motors' OnStar Smart Driver program shared detailed driver data with insurance companies, leading to increased premiums for some users. Privacy breaches have also occurred, such as Tesla employees sharing footage from customer vehicles.

To safeguard their privacy, car owners should educate themselves about their vehicle's data capabilities, adjust privacy settings, opt out of unnecessary data collection programs, and ensure secure digital connections. Staying informed and advocating for stronger data protection regulations is also crucial. As the automotive industry evolves, so must our approach to privacy and data security, ensuring that the road ahead remains as free as possible from surveillance.