The FTC's data-sharing order against GM is finally settled

Core Points - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has finalized an order prohibiting General Motors (GM) and its OnStar service from sharing specific consumer data with reporting agencies, requiring explicit consumer consent for data collection [1][5] - The order follows a New York Times report revealing GM's collection and sale of drivers' geolocation and driving behavior data to third parties, impacting insurance rates [2] - GM has discontinued its Smart Driver program, which tracked driving behaviors, and ended third-party telematics relationships with data brokers [3] Data Collection and Consent - The FTC alleged that GM misled consumers during the enrollment process for OnStar services, failing to disclose data collection and sales to third parties [4] - Under the new order, GM must obtain explicit consent from consumers at the point of sale regarding data collection linked to their vehicle's VIN [5] - Exceptions to the data collection ban include sharing location data with emergency responders and for internal research purposes [6] Consumer Rights and Privacy Measures - GM is required to establish a process for U.S. consumers to request their data, seek deletion, and disable precise geolocation data collection [7] - The company has begun overhauling its data collection and privacy policies, consolidating privacy statements and enhancing customer access to personal information [9] - GM emphasizes its commitment to customer privacy and transparency as vehicle connectivity becomes more integral to the driving experience [10]