Have you ever wondered what type of data your car collects about you? Advanced technology is making driving safer and more convenient, but what type of information is your vehicle collecting? Also, who has access to the data? Is your car’s technology putting your privacy at risk?
Let’s take a look at the types of information your vehicle is collecting.
Your Driver Profile
Every time you start the vehicle’s engine the onboard computer starts collecting information.
Some of the data commonly collected include when you use the turn signal and windshield wipers. How frequently you brake and how hard you press down on the pedal are also part of your driver profile. Your vehicle may even record when you wear a seat belt.
Don’t forget about your driving route, it’s also being tracked and recorded.
Why Track Your Driving Habits
It’s not uncommon for corporations to track their driver’s behavior behind the wheel. It’s done for safety and insurance purposes.
A telematics system collects data about your driving habits and mileage via an app or small device attached to the vehicle.
However, it’s not only corporations with company vehicles using this type of technology. Automobile manufacturers also install data collection technology in their vehicles.
One example is General Motors’ OnStar service.
Along with providing roadside assistance, GM’s technology also collects a wide range of information.
GM is also expanding its OnStar technology to additional vehicle manufacturers.
Here’s a look at some of the data your company and personal vehicles often collect,
- GPS location
- Impact data
- Crash avoidance maneuvers
- Vehicle direction data
- Safety system information
Collected data can also include information from the vehicle’s sensors and onboard cameras. Don’t forget about the infotainment systems.
It’s becoming more common for cars to allow drivers to connect their smartphones, giving the vehicle access to additional information. Texts, call lists, stored pictures, and even websites visited can all be data collected by your car. Why is this data being collected? The answer is a little vague but it can be used by some agencies.
Is the Government Using Your Collected Data?
While state and federal governments can access the data collected by your vehicle, at no charge, telematic information is more commonly used by law enforcement agencies.
Along with local and state police, the Customs and Border Protection and Immigrations Customs Enforcement agencies use vehicle onboard technology to collect information on possible subjects.
While the data can lead to arrests, it can also be beneficial in helping to clear potential subjects. For some drivers, it can help prove their innocence in a crime. However, there is still the question of your privacy.
Collected data is typically used. Whether it’s for advertising and marketing purposes or to track suspected criminals, information gathered by your vehicle presents interest to third parties.
With connected vehicles becoming the norm, drivers can continue to expect to have their data collected every time they turn on the ignition.
One potential solution is to include settings allowing drivers to disconnect the telematics system. Whether this will become standard is a question for the automotive industry.
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