Connected Cars Spark First Probe By California Privacy Agency

The California Privacy Protection Agency announced Monday it’s investigating the privacy practices of vehicle manufacturers, the agency’s first probe since it gained enforcement powers on July 1.

Agency staff is specifically looking into the technologies that are connected to vehicles, which would include cars that are connected to a wireless network and those that feature capabilities such as GPS navigation or smartphone integration. Such vehicles can automatically collect location data or other personal data from drivers.

“Modern vehicles are effectively connected computers on wheels. They’re able to collect a wealth of information via built-in apps, sensors, and cameras, which can ...