GM settles for $220M over selling drivers’ private data without consent

General Motors has agreed to a $220 million settlement with 36 states over allegations it illegally sold drivers’ private driving behavior and location information to data brokers, TechCrunch reported.

The lawsuit claimed GM sold data collected through its Smart Driver program, which tracked driving habits and seatbelt use via connected car apps. These data brokers then sold the information to insurance providers.

As part of the settlement, GM must obtain drivers’ express consent before collecting or sharing their driving and location data. This aligns with previous agreements GM made with California and the Federal Trade Commission.

The settlement also requires GM to have a third party assess its compliance with the privacy program it has implemented. GM ended the Smart Driver program in 2024 but faced ongoing legal action stemming from earlier data practices.

GM stated the agreement reinforces its strengthened privacy practices and emphasized its commitment to transparency about data use, protection, and customer choices.