Nearly all 19 car brands send driver data to third parties (Northeastern/CR)
A study by Northeastern University and Consumer Reports reveals that nearly all modern car brands transmit sensitive driver data to third parties. This data includes GPS location, driving behavior, and biometric information, often sold to advertisers and insurers without explicit user consent.
Why it matters
The widespread collection of granular personal data by automotive manufacturers raises significant privacy and consumer protection concerns in the digital age.
A Northeastern University and Consumer Reports study of 21 vehicles across 19 brands found that nearly every automaker sends driver data to outside companies — precise GPS for every trip, braking and acceleration, even in-cabin camera footage. In 2026 the FTC found GM sold geolocation from millions of cars without proper consent.
Northeastern and Consumer Reports tested 21 vehicles from 19 brands; nearly all transmitted driver data to third parties, including some of the world's largest ad companies. Collected data spans precise GPS per trip, speed/braking/acceleration, seatbelt use, infotainment usage, seat-sensor biometrics, and in-cabin camera footage. In 2026 the FTC's order against GM/OnStar found it collected and sold precise geolocation and driving behavior from millions of vehicles without adequate consent — data that flows on to banks, insurers, and lenders.
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