Cars Are Smartphones on Wheels: Investigating Data Privacy and Surveillance

A new research project from Northeastern University, titled 'Automatic Transmission,' explores the growing concern regarding data privacy in modern vehicles. As cars become increasingly connected, they function essentially as smartphones on wheels, collecting vast amounts of telemetry, location data, and behavioral information. The study investigates the extent to which these vehicles transmit data back to manufacturers and third-party services, often without clear consumer awareness. By analyzing the communication patterns of modern connected cars, the researchers aim to shed light on the privacy implications of the automotive industry's shift toward data-driven ecosystems. The project highlights the lack of transparency in how automotive companies handle sensitive user data, raising significant questions about consent, data ownership, and the potential for surveillance in the era of the software-defined vehicle.