GoKawiilStudy finds 21 car brands sharing driver data with third parties, including advertisers
A Northeastern University study conducted with Consumer Reports tested 21 vehicles from 19 brands and 30 companion apps, finding every vehicle sent data to at least one third-party domain. More than half contacted advertising, tracking or analytics firms, and seven apps transmitted identifying details such as phone numbers, VINs and precise locations. Consumer Reports says it is the first study to map how data flows between vehicles, apps and outside companies.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings arrive after the FTC barred General Motors from sharing driver location and behavior data with consumer reporting agencies for five years, and after California regulators fined Ford and Honda over opt-out practices, suggesting regulators are increasingly scrutinizing automotive data practices. Automakers' differing responses — some defending the practice as legal while Honda had data deleted and changed its app — indicate the industry has no unified standard on driver privacy, which could invite further regulatory action.
- Every one of 21 tested vehicles sent data to at least one third-party domain.
- Seven companion apps transmitted identifying details like phone numbers, VINs and precise locations.
- Regulators have already acted against GM, Ford and Honda over data-sharing and opt-out practices.
OBD-II Bluetooth Blocker Faraday Pouch — If you're worried about your vehicle's data collection habits, a Faraday pouch is a simple way to shield your phone or key fob from unwanted wireless signals when you're not actively using them. It's a practical, low-cost step toward limiting unnecessary tracking while you figure out your car's actual data-sharing settings.
See OBD-II Bluetooth Blocker Faraday Pouch on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: entrepreneur.com — Jon Small, 2026-10-02
Published there as: “Your Car Is Spying on You. A New Study Shows Just Who It’s Telling Your Secrets To.”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.