Contemporary automobiles are brimming with cutting-edge technological features catering to the preferences of potential car buyers, ranging from proprietary operating systems to navigation aids and remote unlocking capabilities.
However, these technological strides raise concerns about driver privacy, according to Ivan Drury, the insights director at Edmunds, a prominent car website. Drury highlighted that many of these advancements rely on data, whether sourced from the car's built-in computer or through GPS services connected to the vehicle.
A September report by Mozilla, a data privacy advocate, sheds light on the data practices of various car brands. It reveals that most new vehicles collect diverse sets of user data, which they often share and sell. Approximately 84% of the assessed brands share personal data with undisclosed third parties, while 76% admit to selling customer data.
Only two brands, Renault and Dacia, currently offer users the option to delete their personal data, as per Mozilla's findings. Theresa Payton, founder and CEO of Fortalice Solutions, a cybersecurity advisory firm, likened the current scenario to the "Wild, Wild West" of data collection, emphasizing the challenges faced by consumers in balancing budgetary constraints with privacy concerns.
Tom McParland, a contributor to automotive website Jalopnik, pointed out that data collected by cars may not differ significantly from that shared by smartphones. He noted that users often unknowingly relinquish vast amounts of personal data through their mobile devices.
Despite the challenges, experts suggest three steps for consumers to navigate the complexities of data privacy when considering new car purchases. Firstly, they recommend inquiring about data privacy policies at the dealership. Potential buyers should seek clarification on a manufacturer's data collection practices and inquire about options to opt in or out of data collection, aggregation, and monetization.
Furthermore, consumers should explore the possibility of anonymizing their data to prevent personal identification. Drury advised consulting with service managers at the dealership for deeper insights, as they are often more familiar with technical aspects than salespersons.
Attempts to remove a car's internet connectivity device, as demonstrated in a recent episode of The New York Times' podcast "The Daily," may not effectively safeguard privacy. McParland cautioned against such actions, emphasizing the integration of modern car systems, which could compromise safety features and functionality.
While older, used cars offer an alternative without high-tech features, McParland warned of potential risks associated with aging vehicles. Payton highlighted the importance of finding a balance between risk and reward, as disabling the onboard computer could lead to missing out on crucial safety features.