California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill into law that requires connected car manufacturers to allow drivers to cut off remote access to their vehicles, aiming to prevent abusers from tracking victims through their cars. This measure is part of a broader package of eight bills designed to support survivors of domestic violence. The legislation addresses concerns over the growing capabilities of internet-connected vehicles, which can be used to track a user’s whereabouts from afar.
The law mandates that automakers must provide drivers with a simple process to disable remote access without charging any fees. It also ensures that drivers are notified if remote vehicle technology is being used. This move comes after reports showed how abusers have exploited these connected features to stalk former partners, which has drawn the attention of regulators and lawmakers alike.
The bill is expected to have a broader impact, potentially leading to similar legislation nationwide. Automakers will now be required to change the way their connected car systems work by allowing car owners to block specific individuals from remotely accessing their vehicles. This could lead to a shift in how connected vehicle technology is managed in the future, especially regarding privacy and safety concerns.
While the law is a significant step, advocates like Andrea Amico from Privacy4Cars are calling for more comprehensive measures. Earlier this year, Amico’s organization, along with domestic violence advocacy groups, urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require automakers to disclose whether their cars allow remote access. The FCC is currently exploring how to hold automakers accountable for preventing harassment of domestic violence survivors through vehicle technology.
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