Published: December 2017

Auto manufacturers, rental companies must protect drivers’ personal data

Automobiles in the digital age can collect a shocking amount of personal data from drivers. This becomes a problem when people rent cars and “plug in” to the infotainment systems, which can store information ranging from their whereabouts to their social media accounts (information that is easily accessible to others).

As cars become more advanced technologically, the amount of data they collect and store increases. A group of consumer advocates sent letters to major automobile manufacturers and rental companies expressing concern about consumer privacy in the digital age. Specifically, the groups cautioned them about the amount of data cars can now collect, including location data, call history, search and browsing history, etc. The coalition urged rental companies and manufacturers to inform consumers about who controls the data, what data is collected (and held/accessible to others) and how the data can be removed.

Lead Organization

Privacy International

Other Organizations

ANEC - the European consumer voice in standardisation | Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood
 | Consumer Action | Consumer Federation of America | Consumer Watchdog | EPIC | Hermes Center for Transparency and Digital Human Rights | Norwegian Consumer Council
 | Privacy International

More Information

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Auto manufacturers, rental companies must protect drivers’ personal data   (AutoManufacturersLetter.pdf)