New study finds connected cars share owner data with tech companies
Researchers at Northeastern University and Consumer Reports tested late-model vehicles and mobile apps to reveal how driving data is shared with third parties.
Vehicles send traffic to outsiders
The peer-reviewed study examined 21 late-model vehicles from 17 different automakers. Nineteen of those 21 cars sent traffic data to at least one third party. This finding confirms that driving information leaves the vehicle frequently without owner consent.
Apps expose sensitive personal details
Researchers also tested 30 companion mobile apps associated with these connected vehicles. Seven of the 30 applications gave sensitive data such as VINs and precise locations to tracking companies. Some apps shared emails, phone numbers, and other private information with advertising partners.
Major tech firms receive data
The study identified specific technology companies that received this consumer data from the tested fleet. Adobe, ContentSquare, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Snap, and Yahoo were among the recipients listed in the report. Consumers face limited options to stop this sharing short of avoiding vehicle features entirely.
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