Car is a smartphone on wheels. Here's who's listening

# Summary Researchers investigated data privacy in connected vehicles by testing 21 U.S. vehicles and 30 companion mobile apps, finding that both devices transmit personal consumer data to manufacturers and undisclosed third parties with minimal user control or visibility. Once data leaves devices, companies make independent decisions about sharing or selling it to other parties, creating significant privacy risks for consumers. The study represents the first comprehensive examination of data flows in the connected vehicle ecosystem and raises questions about manufacturer accountability regarding data handling practices.