Modern cars come with a feature most drivers and owners are unaware of, a data spy.
Many modern cars can collect and transmit data about the driver to external parties using integrated internet connection and technology – but are car owners aware that they can?
Uswitch car insurance wanted to understand how knowledgeable car owners are about their vehicle’s data collection and sharing practices.
Despite over half (57%) of UK car owners confidently believing they understand what data cars can collect, the research suggested they are not well-informed. Less than a third (28%) admitted to reading the terms and conditions or data agreements around their car’s data collection capabilities, and under a quarter (22%) researched this aspect before buying their vehicle.
Car owners lack awareness of key data points that most modern cars collect:
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The vast majority (72%) of car owners were in the dark about some cars collecting data around driving schedules – for example, how frequently or what times the car is used.
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Over two-thirds (67%) were also unaware that cars could collect data around their usage of connected features, such as GPS, car dashboard or multimedia screen and infotainment systems.
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Additionally, over half of respondents didn’t know that some cars can collect data on speed (54%) and route history (53%).
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Over two-fifths (44%) also didn’t realise that the current location of the car can be tracked and stored.
The research also revealed a significant gap in understanding regarding the organisations that could have access to the data collected by cars – potentially compromising drivers’ privacy.
The most obvious organisation who have access to the data collected by cars is the manufacturer / brand, however two thirds (66%) of respondents didn’t realise this.
Car manufacturers can use the insights collected for a variety of reasons, such as safety improvements, risk management and quality assurance. Car owners were most comfortable (63%) with their data being used to make safety improvements.
Although some data uses could benefit drivers, privacy concerns arise through reports that car manufacturers share, or sell the data with third parties[2]. It’s not always clear who these third parties are although it may be stipulated in the terms and conditions or data agreement.
This could include insurers, which could impact drivers due to the data being used to adjust premiums, yet almost two-thirds (61%) of car owners were unaware of this.
Uswitch car insurance expert, Leoni Moninska, outlines how car owners can protect their data, “Understand what data your car is collecting: It’s important to be aware of what data your car collects and who that data is shared with, so you can make informed decisions when driving or using certain features.
“You can do this by reading the terms and conditions or data agreement associated with your car. If you’re still unsure, you could even contact your car manufacturer directly. Some brands will provide information about what personal data they hold about you if you file a privacy request.”
Leoni added, “Limit data collection features: While certain sensors and systems that collect data are essential for your car’s functionality, there are some features you can turn off for privacy protection. For example, if you don’t need the GPS on routine journeys, turn it off. If you’re concerned about your car collecting data from your phone, don’t connect to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or Bluetooth.
“However, ensure you weigh up the pros and cons of disabling features. For instance, having your phone connected could be important in an emergency. Instead, you could decline access to certain elements, such as your contacts or text messages.”
Use associated apps with caution: Installing mobile apps associated with your car can be a gateway to information stored on your phone, giving car manufacturers or third parties access to even more personal data.
To limit this, you can check and alter the app permissions, for example, deny it access to your microphone or camera. You can also ask the app not to track, preventing it from tracking you across other apps and websites. There should also be data sharing options in the app’s settings, where you can opt out of sharing your data with third parties.
