Allegations of Spying by GM OnStar
Buying a Chevy Bolt and Privacy Issues
A privacy reporter and her husband bought a Chevy Bolt and later discovered that their driving data was being sold. They discovered that the dealership had enrolled them in the OnStar Smart Driver program without their knowledge, leading to their information being shared with data brokers like LexisNexis Risk Solutions and Verisk. These companies work with insurance firms to evaluate drivers’ risks.
Smart Driver Program and Selling Data
The Smart Driver program collects driving data and sells it to insurance companies. The affected buyers learned that this process begins as they purchase the car, often without their consent. Dealers may automatically enroll customers in the program, impacting their insurance premiums based on their real driving habits.
Effects on Insurance Costs
After enrolling in the Smart Driver program, the couple noticed an increase in their insurance premiums. Their insurer adjusted rates based on their driving data, which OnStar collected and sold to different entities. Drivers incur higher costs without clear access to their driving records.
Manufacturer and Dealership Upselling Tactics
Dealers often receive pressure from manufacturers like GM to enroll buyers in services such as OnStar. Sales staff may face penalties if they don’t meet certain enrollment quotas. This upselling is common across various industries, and car dealerships use it to ensure they meet specific targets, sometimes resulting in unexpected consequences for buyers.
Ways to Guard Your Privacy
Contact Manufacturers and Dealers
Contact your car’s manufacturer or dealership to prevent your data from being automatically sold. Ask whether your data is being shared and how you can opt-out. Often, you can find contact information on the manufacturer’s website. If you have a good relationship with your dealer, they can also help ensure your information stays private.
Removing the OnStar Module
In some cars, an OnStar module that tracks driving behavior is installed. By removing this module, you can stop your vehicle from sending data. This action usually won’t affect the car’s performance, but it’s wise to have an auto electric shop professional handle the removal to ensure everything is done correctly.
