Cars Share Driver Data with Big Tech

A study by Northeastern University and Consumer Reports has revealed that many modern vehicles are sharing sensitive driver data with major tech companies, including Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft.

The researchers tested 21 vehicles and 30 companion apps, finding that 28 of the apps sent data to at least one outside advertising or analytics company. Seven of these apps shared personally identifiable information, such as a driver's name, vehicle identification number (VIN), or precise location.

While some automakers note that many of their provided services are 'opt-in,' meaning drivers must agree to share their data, the study found that popular features often won't function without opting in. In some cases, a vehicle's connected services may be significantly limited if data sharing is not allowed.

Among the vehicles tested, the Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer, Lucid Air, Tesla Model 3, and Tesla Cybertruck sent data to the largest number of outside advertising and analytics companies. Connected apps from BMW, General Motors brands, and Toyota also contacted a large number of outside companies.