California Residents Demand Privacy in Connected Cars
California residents are raising concerns about their privacy in connected cars. With over 35 million vehicles registered in the state, this issue affects many residents. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) empowers consumers with rights over their personal data, but it's unclear if car companies are fully compliant, especially regarding geolocation tracking.
The California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA) is currently investigating car companies' compliance with data privacy laws. Despite the CCPA granting consumers the right to opt out of geolocation tracking, it's uncertain if this option is being provided by car manufacturers.
Modern cars collect vast amounts of personal information, including travel habits, purchases, and demographic data. This data is valuable, with automotive data projected to be a $400 billion industry by 2030. However, the collection and use of this data by car companies are under investigation, raising concerns about consumer privacy.
Consumer Watchdog, in its 2022 report, has highlighted the privacy threats posed by connected cars. One major concern is the third-party acquisition of personal car data, which can be shared with law enforcement agencies.
The investigation into car companies' data collection and use practices is ongoing. While consumers have rights under the CCPA, it's unclear if these rights are being fully respected, particularly regarding geolocation tracking. As connected cars become more prevalent, addressing these privacy concerns will be crucial to protect California residents' personal data.
