The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is urging automakers to prioritize the safety and protection of individuals who may be vulnerable to stalking and harassment within connected vehicles. In an effort to address a growing concern, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has sent letters to nine major automakers, requesting details on their connected car systems and plans to support victims of domestic abuse.
Rosenworcel emphasized that no survivor of domestic violence should be forced to choose between their personal safety and the use of their vehicle. With the increasing prevalence of connected features in modern cars, such as remote engine start and location tracking capabilities, there is a potential risk that abusers could exploit these technologies to harm their partners.
The FCC's letter specifically inquires about the automakers' connected services and whether they have policies in place to remove access to connected apps and features upon request from individuals facing abuse. Moreover, the letter questions whether access is revoked even if the perpetrator's name is listed on the vehicle's title.
The automakers to whom the letters were addressed include General Motors, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Stellantis, Tesla, and Toyota. Similar correspondence was also sent to wireless voice providers, indicating that the issue extends beyond vehicle manufacturers alone.
As of now, the automakers in question have not yet responded to the FCC's requests for comment. However, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a leading trade association representing major automakers, released a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the issue. They stated that the misuse of connected vehicle technology for stalking or harassment is unacceptable. The association is actively exploring ways to strengthen federal or state policies and other protective measures to prevent such incidents.
The FCC's action was prompted by a recent article in The New York Times, which shed light on the dangerous potential of connected cars being utilized as weapons in abusive relationships. The article highlighted how convenience features, reliant on wireless connectivity and location data, can be weaponized by individuals with harmful intentions.
With the rapid advancement of technology in cars, it is crucial that steps are taken to safeguard the privacy and personal safety of individuals using connected vehicles. The FCC's initiative is a significant leap toward addressing this pressing issue and ensuring that survivors of domestic violence are not subjected to further harm through the misuse of connected car systems.
