Study reveals extensive data sharing in connected vehicles and companion apps
A study by Northeastern University researchers found that 19 out of 21 late-model vehicles tested shared data with third-party companies.
In Brief
- •A study by Northeastern University researchers found that 19 out of 21 late-model vehicles tested shared data with third-party companies.
- •Seven out of 30 companion apps examined shared sensitive data such as VIN, email, phone numbers, and precise location with tracking and advertising companies.
- •Data sharing often involved multiple forms of information being sent to the same third party, allowing advertisers and data brokers to build detailed consumer profiles.
- •Most automakers blamed consumers for data sharing, except Honda, which improved its data collection practices after the study's findings.
- •The study highlights the extensive and often invisible data collection in the connected vehicle ecosystem.
Why It Matters
The study's findings raise significant concerns about consumer privacy in the connected vehicle ecosystem. As vehicles and their companion apps become more integrated with digital services, the amount of personal data being collected and shared is growing. This can have serious implications for consumer trust and data security. The study's findings also highlight the need for clearer communication and better data protection measures from automakers and their partners.
Key Details
- Vehicles Tested
- 21 late-model vehicles from 17 automakers
- Companion Apps Examined
- 30 companion mobile apps
- Vehicles Sharing Data
- 19 out of 21
- Apps Sharing Sensitive Data
- 7 out of 30
- Third-Party Companies
- Adobe, ContentSquare, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Snap, Yahoo
Context & Background
Previous investigations and lawsuits have exposed how driving data is collected and shared with third parties, including insurance companies. The study builds on this existing knowledge to provide a comprehensive view of the data sharing practices in the connected vehicle ecosystem.
Original Reporting & Sources
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