New Cars Spewing Driver Data to Tech Giants

Researchers from Northeastern University and Consumer Reports found widespread data sharing by new cars' companion apps. Of 30 tested apps, 28 sent data to at least one outside advertising or analytics company. Some of those apps shared personally identifiable information like names, vehicle ID numbers, or precise locations.

The study, which tested 21 vehicles, revealed that Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft were among the recipients of driver data. The Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer, Lucid Air, and both Tesla models sent data to the most outside firms. As one co-author put it, 'buyers cannot currently purchase a new car that does not track them.'

The study's findings raise concerns about consumer privacy and the potential for misuse of personal data. While some may see this as an acceptable trade-off for convenience and features, others may view it as an invasion of their right to control their own information.