The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated a rulemaking process to investigate the issue of connected car stalking, aiming to prevent abusers from exploiting car connectivity tools to harass domestic violence survivors. This formal proceeding, announced by FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel, seeks to ensure that automakers and wireless service providers take measures to assist abuse survivors effectively. The rulemaking is a response to the 2022 Safe Connections Act and follows inquiries made by Rosenworcel to car companies and carriers in January to gather information for the FCC’s enforcement efforts.
The FCC’s notice of proposed rulemaking focuses on understanding the types and frequency of connected car services available and whether adjustments to FCC rules are necessary to adequately address the impact of these services on domestic violence survivors. There’s a consideration to designate connected cars as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), which would grant the FCC more regulatory power, potentially leading to a ban on manufacturers selling geolocation data and improving transparency on data practices. This proposed rulemaking aims to compel car manufacturers to provide greater transparency regarding their connected car technologies and compliance with the Safe Connections Act.
By classifying connected cars as MVNOs, the FCC intends to ensure that survivors of domestic abuse have the ability to separate lines connecting their cars, akin to separating phone lines. This measure aims to enhance survivors’ safety, security, and freedom from harm when using their vehicles. The rulemaking process also seeks input from industry stakeholders on additional measures that can be implemented to safeguard survivors from the misuse of connected car tools, further underscoring the FCC’s commitment to addressing this critical issue and protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.
