#USA #Toyota #San Francisco #Data Brokers #Privacy Laws

Investigation into Toyota's Data Practices

In a troubling revelation, Toyota Motor North America, Inc. is under scrutiny for allegedly selling sensitive driving information to data brokers and insurance companies, all without obtaining explicit consent from drivers. This investigation, led by Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP, raises alarming questions about the automaker's privacy practices, its commitment to transparency, and the repercussions for drivers.

The allegations come to light amid a recent lawsuit that claims Toyota has been tracking various metrics related to driving behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, data on mileage, speed, braking patterns, acceleration, travel direction, usage of steering, and other operational data gathered from vehicle sensors. Once collected, this sensitive data is reportedly sold to Connected Analytic Services (CAS), which subsequently distributes it to insurance companies like Progressive Casualty Insurance Company.

Impact on Drivers

The implications of this data-handling practice are significant. Drivers who may have unknowingly had their information sold could potentially face spikes in their auto insurance premiums or even outright denial of coverage. Many are now questioning how their driving habits, tracked without their knowledge, can affect their insurance rates.

Moreover, the lawsuit claims that Toyota has not adequately disclosed its data tracking practices. Although the company has asserted that it does not share data without customer consent, there are allegations that it has enrolled users into