A Northeastern University study found that modern vehicles and their companion apps transmit detailed driver data including locations, VINs, and personal identifiers to major tech companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft. Researchers tested 21 vehicles and 30 automaker apps, discovering that 28 of 30 apps sent data to outside advertising or analytics companies, with some sharing personally identifiable information that could enable tracking and profiling.
A Northeastern University study tested 21 late-model vehicles and found that 19 shared personal data with third parties, including major tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta. Companion mobile apps further exposed users to dozens of trackers, while manufacturers claimed data-sharing was contractual and shifted responsibility to consumers, though opting out often disables key features.