Is Your Car Spying on You? The Dark Side of Connected Vehicles

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In today's increasingly connected world, our vehicles are more than just modes of transportation. They are rolling computers, loaded with sensors and data-gathering capabilities that extend far beyond what most drivers might imagine. While the conveniences of connected cars are celebrated, there's a darker side to this technology that often goes unnoticed. Your car might be spying on you, collecting a treasure trove of personal information, from your driving habits to the most intimate aspects of your life. And im not even trying to be dramatic, this shit is crazy
You see some studies have come up with some The Alarming Findings
According to Mozilla, an organization known for advocating online privacy, the automobile industry ranks among the worst when it comes to respecting consumers' data privacy. In a comprehensive study, they examined 25 car brands, and every single one earned Mozilla's "Privacy Not Included" warning label due to their poor handling of consumer data.
The study revealed some startling facts. Not only do automakers collect more data than necessary for their connected services, but they also delve into sensitive areas such as your genetics and even your sex life. I want to know how they collect this, but yeah lets continue. Nissan, for instance, raised eyebrows by admitting to collecting data related to your "sexual activity." Kia also joined this unsettling trend by mentioning its ability to gather information about your "sex life" in their privacy policy. Shockingly, six car companies claim they can collect your "genetic information" or "genetic characteristics." Again I just want to know how. Maybe its in the policy. But how the hell does this thing know when I’m feeling raunchy
But lets continue. The problem doesn't stop at data collection. An alarming 84 percent of car brands share this data with third-party companies, including service providers and data brokers. Even more concerning is that 76 percent of these carmakers' privacy agreements allow them to sell your personal data. Additionally, over half of them are willing to share your information with local governments and law enforcement agencies upon request, without requiring a court order. These days privacy is an illusion.
One of the most disconcerting aspects is the lack of control and transparency surrounding your data. While Renault and Dacia are the only brands that affirm all drivers have the right to delete their personal data, others assume that once you enter their vehicle, you've consented to their privacy agreement. Which is BS, If you ask me. Some even shift the responsibility of informing them about the privacy agreement to the owner, potentially leaving occupants in the dark.
Even for those who diligently read privacy agreements, critical information often remains elusive. Mozilla's research reveals that car privacy policies are typically less detailed and informative than those of apps, a shocking revelation given the sensitivity of the data at stake.
It doesn’t stop there though
Connected vehicles are data goldmines, yet their cybersecurity measures often fall short. Over the past three years, 68 percent of the brands examined by Mozilla earned a "bad track record" for data leaks, hacks, and breaches that jeopardized drivers' privacy. This lack of security stands in stark contrast to the principles of data minimization, transparency, and consumer choice promoted by industry groups like the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
And I feel something needs to be done about this.
And im not alone, As the ubiquity of connected vehicles grows, consumers are left with limited recourse. With traditional, non-connected cars gradually phasing out of the market, the surrender of personal data to companies with lax privacy practices seems almost unavoidable.
Mozilla believes that by pressuring the automotive industry and holding them accountable for data breaches and over-mining, positive change can be enacted. Government regulation may also play a crucial role in ensuring that consumers' data is treated with the respect and care it deserves.
Btw me personally, im lucky I like older cars, my newest car is 13 years old. And my olders car is going on 30. So im fine.
Anyways to end it of, while the age of connected vehicles promises unparalleled convenience and innovation, it's imperative for consumers to remain vigilant about the data their cars may be collecting. Awareness, advocacy, and regulatory action are vital steps towards safeguarding our privacy in an era where even our cars are watching and listening.
But let me know what you think number 1 and then more importantly im really curious on if any of you guys even knew about this.
#Privacy #Spying #Cars

[@nospamallowed4890]

We need a video on what steps we can take to protect ourselves. The obvious ones are: - Avoid expensive cars until privacy legislation is enacted. Car companies aren't going to put many of these advanced features on cheap cars... as somebody must pay for them. - Never connect your phone to the car. Use a dash mount for navigation with your phone. Maybe even unGoogle your Android phone. - Don't connect the car to your home wifi. - Learn how to wipe your car's history. But I am sure there is much more to do.

[@patr10t762]

first I have seen a comment about AOS androids.

[@donedwards6414]

Can be scary.

[@wevans2084]

Thanks for the video, just deleted my BMW app.

[@Roddy_Zeh]

That is why I'd rather stick to old vehicles. As little electronics as possible, or at least with zero connectivity. Like, 1990's stuff, with ABS, ESP and the like, but that was not connected, you know...

[@rjung_ch]

Since the first car with audio commands was introduced this has been possible. Apple or Google in the car means they have been listening already. Even if "Hey Google" was deactivated, it may just mean, they won't react but are always listening. Just a thought, but is it true? I'd say more than 50% true.

[@rjung_ch]

Chris, I guess after the success of the GT-R, Nissan has an idea what gets some peoples rocks off! But this may be something strange indeed. Or is there a special 'happy end' somewhere to click while buying one? lol

[@offgridas]

Yet another reson to love 90s junk

[@kcdesignconcepts5216]

iDrive older cars that there's not have any of this. But I do have cellphones and laptops that are just as bad. In this modern age somebody is always watching and listening. Deeply disturbing.

[@patr10t762]

One can signal block handheld device or not take them.

[@JW-wh5ft]

Haven't bought a new car in 20 years. Just bought a new Kia in July, now I'm getting blown up buy junk phone calls and emails. 👌 great

[@patr10t762]

It is not lost on me that the cars all around me are gathering data even if I drive an antique. Us consumers will soon have an opportunity to not buy the tech offered. Cars need to become less expensive and analog as the cost of the tech is driving people to used options.

[@Nice_Person7379]

You know, there are a lot of Chinese EV brands coming up. Many EVs have some form of AI and touchscreens everywhere. And they are Chinese companies so they must obey the CCP and they have to monitor user data and exploit it. So that means…

[@rjung_ch]

.. never buy a Chinese car is what that means. But Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, VW group and others spy on us as well, for sure!