Connected Cars Are a Surveillance Platform
Overview
A study from researchers at Northeastern University and Consumer Reports reveals that modern cars are collecting extensive data about drivers and sharing it with various third parties. This data includes information about driving habits, which is sent to car manufacturers, insurance companies, lenders, and even government agencies. The research indicates that this surveillance is not just about improving user experience but also about creating risk profiles that can impact insurance rates and loan approvals. With the prevalence of connected vehicles, drivers may not be fully aware of how much information is being gathered and how it is being used against them. This raises significant privacy concerns and highlights the need for better transparency in the automotive industry regarding data handling practices.
Key Takeaways
- Affected Systems: Modern connected vehicles, vehicle apps, insurance companies, lenders, data brokers, infotainment and WiFi service providers, local and state government agencies
- Action Required: Drivers should review privacy settings in their vehicle apps and consult with manufacturers about data collection practices.
- Timeline: Newly disclosed
Original Article Summary
Researchers at Northeastern University, in collaboration with Consumer Reports, evaluated how much modern cars spy in their drivers: The new Northeastern study shows, for the first time, data flowing among the vehicles, the vehicle apps you download when you buy your car, and third-party companies, documenting exactly what kind of data gets siphoned from our vehicles and which companies are receiving that information. Basically, your car’s manufacturer has you under constant surveillance, and they use that data against you. The companies on the receiving end of your data, our investigation has found, include car insurers and lenders that are partners in “telematics data exchanges,” which compile driving data on millions of drivers, thousands of data brokers that create personalized risk scores, companies selling infotainment and WiFi hotspot products, and even local and state government agencies working on planning, traffic, and safety initiatives...
Impact
Modern connected vehicles, vehicle apps, insurance companies, lenders, data brokers, infotainment and WiFi service providers, local and state government agencies
Exploitation Status
No active exploitation has been reported at this time. However, organizations should still apply patches promptly as proof-of-concept code may exist.
Timeline
Newly disclosed
Remediation
Drivers should review privacy settings in their vehicle apps and consult with manufacturers about data collection practices. Advocating for clearer privacy policies and regulations may also be beneficial.
Additional Information
This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.