Car Data Industry Booms, Raising Privacy Concerns in California
Car companies are amassing vast amounts of personal data from drivers, with the automotive data industry projected to reach $400 billion by 2030. Consumer Watchdog has flagged privacy concerns in the sector, particularly in California where over 35 million vehicles are registered.
Car manufacturers collect a wide range of data, including travel destinations, purchases, and demographic information. This data is often shared with third-party companies for marketing purposes, and even with law enforcement agencies. Consumers may unknowingly agree to this data collection due to complex agreements. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants residents the right to opt-out of geolocation tracking in their vehicles, but no company has publicly committed to not collecting or processing such data. The California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA) is currently investigating car companies' compliance with data privacy laws under the CCPA.
The car industry's data collection practices raise significant privacy concerns, particularly in California. While consumers have the right to opt-out of geolocation tracking, no company has publicly committed to ceasing data collection. The CPPA's ongoing investigation aims to ensure car companies comply with data privacy laws.
