Cars spy on drivers sending droves of data to manufacturers, Dutch auto assoc. claims

More and more cars are sending increasing amounts of data to vehicle manufacturers, without the drivers being aware of this, Dutch car association ANWB warns. According to the association, so-called "connected" cars can definitely do a lot of good, such as improve safety and offer more services. But there is also a downside to this development, such as violation of privacy. The increased stream of data going to the manufacturers also increases the risk of hacking, which goes hand in hand with car theft and disturbance of security functions. A recent study by FIA showed that data collected and transmitted by connected cars include information about the last 100 parking spaces, routes and destinations. It also includes information about driving behavior, such as speed, braking and seat belt use. Information on drivers' smartphones, such as phone numbers, photos and addresses, is also stored on the car's hard drive. The study also showed that 76 percent of Dutch know nothing about the benefits and disadvantages of a connected car. 88 percent are worried that their information will be used commercially. 84 percent are concerned about hacking. And 94 percent wants a law specifically protecting the privacy of the motorist. ANWB and other European car associations in FIA launched a campaign "My car, my data", to make motorists aware of the implications of connected cars.