A recent study by the Mozilla Foundation has unveiled some eyebrow-raising facts about modern cars. While we've all been busy worrying about our smartwatches and doorbells spying on us, our cars have silently revved up their data collection game.

Picture this: You're cruising down the highway, wind tousling your hair, belting out your favorite tunes, and feeling the freedom of the open road. But wait, did your car just wink at you? Well, not quite, but it might as well have, given how much it knows about you!

The Data-Driven Drive

According to the study, every single one of the 25 car brands researched collects more personal data than necessary. That's a whopping 100% for those who love stats! And it's not just about how often you skip that '80s playlist or your penchant for midnight drives. Some of these brands are diving deep—like, really deep.  While modern cars are becoming increasingly intelligent and connected, it's essential to ensure they're also adequately insured. If you're in Toronto, you can get competitive car insurance quotes toronto to safeguard your vehicle.

Every car brand researched collects more personal data than necessary.

• Car companies have vast opportunities to collect data, surpassing even smart devices and cell phones.
• They can gather information from car interactions, connected services, car apps, and third-party sources like Sirius XM or Google Maps.
• The data collected can range from medical and genetic information to details about one's "sex life", driving habits, locations visited, and music preferences.

Love on the Road?

Now, here's where it gets juicy. Nissan, in its infinite wisdom, thinks it's essential to know about your "sexual activity." Yes, you read that right. Your car might just be your biggest gossip buddy! And not to be left behind, Kia chimes in with its interest in your "sex life." One can't help but wonder if they're planning to launch a dating app integrated into the dashboard -> Find love on the go with CarDate!

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And if that wasn't enough, six car companies have expressed their desire to know about your "genetic information" or "genetic characteristics." Perhaps they're contemplating a new matchmaking feature: "Drive with someone who shares 99.9% of your DNA!" (Disclaimer: Not recommended for those looking to expand their gene pool.)

Sharing is Caring?

84% of these brands are more than happy to share your personal data with service providers, data brokers, and other unknown businesses. So, while you thought you were having a private moment singing that romantic ballad, there's a good chance a data broker somewhere is nodding along with you. And 76% say they can sell your personal data. To whom, you ask? Well, that remains the million-dollar (or perhaps, given the data, the billion-dollar) question.

Taking Control (Or Not)

While 92% of the brands give drivers little control over their data, Renault and Dacia seem to be the knights in shining armor, allowing drivers the right to have their data deleted. But let's face it, in a sea of data-hungry sharks, two fish don't make much difference.

Manipulating Consent

• Car companies often assume consent based on the use of their vehicles or services.
• Subaru, for instance, assumes that passengers have consented to data collection just by being inside a connected car.

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• Some brands, like Tesla, offer an opt-out from data collection but warn that it might reduce the car's functionality or even render it inoperable.
• Some companies, like Nissan, place the onus on the car owner to inform other users or passengers about the car's privacy policies.

Data Hubs on Wheels

Cars today are more than just vehicles; they're data hubs on wheels. And while advancements in technology can enhance our driving experience, there's a fine line between useful and just plain creepy. So, the next time you're in your car, remember to keep your secrets close and your data closer. And maybe, just maybe, avoid any risqué conversations unless you want your car to play matchmaker on your next road trip!