“Increasing Concerns Over GM’s OnStar Smart Driver App”
As our vehicles evolve into Smart Driver ‘smartphones on wheels,’ it appears that the intrusive tracking technology synonymous with apps and personal devices is making its way into this transition. A notable example of this is GM’s OnStar service, offering the onboard app “Smart Driver,” marketed as an in-car driving coach aimed at enhancing driving behavior and performance.
Smart Driver
However, recent revelations suggest that this seemingly helpful feature is not only tracking users but also sharing their data with third parties, including insurers, potentially leading to increased premiums for drivers.
The user agreement for Smart Driver vaguely touches upon data usage, but few people delve into the intricate details buried within such agreements. Many users may not even realize that the feature is active, possibly activated by the dealership or a previous owner, leaving them unaware of its implications. Although Smart Driver’s data collection mechanism is unique, the ultimate outcome—insurers accessing driver data via car manufacturers—is not exclusive to GM.
While tracking driving data for insurance purposes is not novel, the lack of clear consent in Smart Driver’s case raises concerns. Unlike opt-in programs where users willingly share data for potential premium reductions, Smart Driver’s data sharing practices lack transparency. The app’s marketing portrays it as a tool to improve driving habits, without disclosing its data-sharing practices to insurers. Consequently, users may unwittingly provide sensitive driving data, leading to unforeseen financial consequences.
Despite the murkiness surrounding consent and data usage, GM maintains that Smart Driver is optional, with users consenting multiple times before limited data is shared with insurers. However, the process of obtaining consent through insurance carriers may not be transparent, often buried within lengthy agreements. Furthermore, customers may not be fully aware of the implications of enrolling in Smart Driver, especially considering potential dealer incentives for activating the feature.
In response to criticisms, GM asserts that consent is required from vehicle owners before activating Smart Driver. However, reports suggest instances where customers claim they never activated the feature yet were still tracked, possibly due to dealer involvement during vehicle purchase. While GM offers mechanisms to unenroll vehicles from Smart Driver, the complexity of the process raises questions about user awareness and control over their data.
Overall, the emergence of tracking technology in vehicles underscores the need for transparent data practices and clear consent mechanisms to safeguard user privacy and financial well-being. As automotive technology continues to advance, regulatory scrutiny and consumer awareness are essential in ensuring responsible data usage and protecting user rights.
