Consumer Data, Vehicle Telemetry, and the OnStar Litigation
The increasing integration of connected technology into consumer vehicles has raised significant questions about data privacy, consent, and consumer protection. These concerns came sharply into focus with litigation involving OnStar, General Motors’ in-vehicle connectivity service, following allegations that consumer driving data was collected and sold without proper authorization.
Investigations alleged that OnStar gathered detailed vehicle-use data—including from consumers who had not opted into the “Smart Driver” program—and shared that information with third parties, including insurance companies. In some cases, insurers reportedly used this data to raise premiums or cancel policies altogether, prompting widespread scrutiny.
The OnStar litigation underscores a broader trend:
State Attorneys General are increasingly examining how emerging technologies intersect with existing consumer protection frameworks. As vehicles, devices, and platforms collect ever-expanding data sets, issues of notice, consent, and downstream use are likely to remain a focal point for enforcement and policy reform.