Cars, especially modern ones with advanced technology, can be used to spy on their owners or other individuals in various ways. Here are some of the methods:
- GPS Tracking:
- Built-in Navigation Systems: Many modern cars have built-in GPS navigation systems that track and store the car’s location history.
- Telematics Systems: These systems collect data on the car’s location, speed, and other metrics, which can be accessed by manufacturers, insurance companies, or even hackers.
- Connected Car Features:
- Infotainment Systems: Cars with internet-connected infotainment systems can transmit data to and from the vehicle, potentially allowing for remote monitoring of location, audio, and usage patterns.
- Smartphone Integration: Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can sync with a driver’s smartphone, potentially sharing data between the car and the phone.
- Vehicle Data Recorders:
- Event Data Recorders (EDRs): Similar to black boxes in airplanes, EDRs in cars record technical vehicle and occupant information in the moments before, during, and after a crash. This data can be accessed to determine how a vehicle was being operated.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity:
- Bluetooth: Cars equipped with Bluetooth can be hacked, allowing for eavesdropping on phone calls or access to phone contacts and messages.
- Wi-Fi Hotspots: Some vehicles offer Wi-Fi hotspots, which can be another vector for data interception if not properly secured.
- Microphones and Cameras:
- Built-in Microphones: Many cars have built-in microphones for voice commands and hands-free calling, which can be activated remotely to listen to conversations.
- Cameras: Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and dashcams can capture video footage from inside and outside the car, which could be accessed if the system is compromised.
- Third-Party Devices:
- OBD-II Trackers: Devices plugged into the car’s OBD-II port for tracking or insurance purposes can transmit data about the car’s location and driving behavior.
- Aftermarket GPS Trackers: These can be installed without the owner’s knowledge to track the vehicle’s location.
- Data Sharing with Manufacturers and Third Parties:
- Manufacturer Data Collection: Automakers often collect data from vehicles for maintenance, performance monitoring, and software updates, which can be shared with third parties.
- Insurance Companies: Usage-based insurance programs collect driving data, which can be used for monitoring driving behavior.
To mitigate these risks, car owners can take several steps, such as regularly updating the vehicle’s software, disabling unnecessary connectivity features, and being cautious about the permissions granted to third-party apps and devices.