Texas Attorney General Investigating Automakers for Secret Data Sales
January 27, 2023
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into automakers over allegations that they are secretly selling driver data collected by their vehicles. The investigation stems from reports that several automakers, including Ford, GM, and Toyota, have been sharing driver data with third-party companies without obtaining explicit consent from drivers. According to Paxton, the automakers may have violated state laws governing the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information. “Texans deserve to know how their data is being used,” said Paxton. “We will thoroughly investigate these allegations and take appropriate action if we find that any laws have been broken.” The attorney general’s office is seeking documents and records from the automakers to determine the extent of their data-sharing practices. Automakers have defended their data collection practices, arguing that the data is necessary for safety, research, and product development purposes. They also claim that they have robust privacy measures in place to protect driver information. However, privacy advocates have raised concerns that the data collected by automakers could be used for purposes beyond those disclosed to drivers. They also worry that the data could be hacked or misused by third parties. The Texas investigation is not the only legal action being taken against automakers over data privacy concerns. Several lawsuits have been filed by individuals and advocacy groups alleging that automakers have violated their privacy rights. The outcome of these investigations and lawsuits could have a significant impact on the future of data collection in the automotive industry. It is possible that new regulations will be enacted to protect driver privacy and limit the use of data by automakers.Texas Attorney General Investigating Automakers Over Data Sales The Texas Attorney General’s office has launched an investigation into reports that some automakers are secretly selling driver data collected from their vehicles. The investigation follows a series of reports in The New York Times that revealed that several automakers, including General Motors, Toyota, and Ford, have been sharing detailed information about their customers with data brokers. The data reportedly includes information such as the driver’s location, speed, and driving habits. The Times investigation found that this data can be used to track individuals, target them with advertising, and even predict their future behavior. The Texas Attorney General’s office is now looking into whether these data practices violate state or federal law. The office has sent subpoenas to several automakers, requesting information about their data collection and sharing practices. The investigation comes amid growing concerns about the privacy implications of connected cars. As vehicles become increasingly connected to the internet, they collect more and more data about their drivers. This data can be valuable to automakers and other companies, but it also raises concerns about how it will be used and protected. The Texas Attorney General’s investigation is a sign that state regulators are taking these concerns seriously. The investigation could lead to new laws or regulations to protect driver privacy.
