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Experts raise concerns about cybersecurity and data privacy as linked automobiles become more commonplace.
A cybersecurity and data privacy specialist is voicing concerns about the increasing threats to user security and privacy as almost all contemporary cars come with internet-enabled capabilities.
Data Collection and Vulnerabilities of Connected Vehicles
Uduak Ekott, a legal expert in the Office of the Indiana Attorney-General’s Data Privacy and Identity Theft Unit, warns that linked cars, sometimes referred to as “smartphones on wheels,” are gathering a lot of private data and could put its owners in danger.
“These vehicles offer a wide range of digital capabilities, from navigation and infotainment to remote control operations and advanced safety features,” Ekott explained. “But in doing so, they gather extensive personal data—including biometric details, location history, and information from synced smartphones.”
The Growing Threat of Cybersecurity Risks
By offering real-time traffic information, customised routes, collision avoidance systems, and remote access to cars, these technologies improve the driving experience, but they also provide security holes that bad actors could take advantage of. Unauthorised access might result in the disclosure of private messages, financial data, and even physical control of the car itself, Ekott stressed.
Rapid Expansion of Smart Vehicle Technology
The scope of this technology is expanding rapidly. According to Ekott, 97% of vehicles globally now come equipped with smart display systems. By 2025, the number of connected cars in operation is expected to surpass 400 million.
Privacy and Data Protection Challenges in Emerging Markets
However, he warned that this explosive growth comes at a cost—especially in emerging markets like Africa and the Global South. “In these regions, reliance on foreign technology providers and a lack of robust local infrastructure make it difficult to regulate and safeguard citizens’ data,” he noted.
Government Response to Privacy Concerns
Governments and regulatory agencies are beginning to respond. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has committed to cracking down on companies that unlawfully collect or misuse data from connected cars. It has also strengthened privacy rules for non-banking financial entities such as auto dealerships.
Global Data Protection Efforts
Meanwhile, the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA) has announced plans to examine the data practices of connected vehicle technologies. On the global front, several African nations have started enacting data protection laws to keep pace with the digital shift.
Expert’s Call for Cybersecurity and Privacy Safeguards
As smart vehicles become more prevalent, Ekott urges both manufacturers and regulators to prioritize cybersecurity safeguards, transparency, and consumer rights. “The convenience of connected vehicles must not come at the cost of user privacy,” he said.
