The Chairwoman of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Jessica Rosenworcel, has reached out to nine major automakers, including Tesla led by Elon Musk, expressing concerns about their policies regarding internet-connected car technology and its potential role in domestic abuse cases. As car technology evolves with advanced features like location tracking and remote control functionalities, cases of technology-enabled stalking have become a growing concern. The FCC’s inquiry delves into the need for secure access to communications, particularly for survivors of domestic abuse.

Growing concerns and technological advances

The integration of sophisticated features in modern cars, such as location tracking and remote control capabilities, has given rise to instances of technology-enabled stalking. As automakers continue to enhance the connectivity of vehicles, concerns regarding the potential misuse of these features, particularly in cases of domestic abuse, have come to the forefront.

FCC’s responsibility and lifeline for survivors

Chairwoman Rosenworcel emphasized the FCC’s responsibility in aiding domestic abuse survivors with secure access to communications, drawing parallels between a car and a smartphone as critical lifelines. The letter to automakers, including Tesla, underscores the FCC’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by survivors who may be at risk due to the connectivity features in their vehicles.

Balancing connectivity and security

The letter highlights the delicate balance between providing advanced connectivity features and ensuring the security and safety of users. Rosenworcel stressed that survivors of domestic violence should not face the dilemma of choosing between their safety and the use of their car, especially when it becomes a potential tool for stalking and harm.

Tesla’s response and industry implications

While Tesla, headed by Elon Musk, has not immediately responded to the FCC’s request for comments, the inquiry has broader implications for the automotive industry. As the adoption of connected car technology becomes more widespread, addressing privacy and security concerns becomes paramount to safeguard users from potential misuse.

Legal case against Tesla

The FCC’s scrutiny comes on the heels of a legal case reported by Reuters involving a woman who sued Tesla, alleging that the company negligently failed to address her complaints of technology-enabled stalking by her husband. The woman claimed instances of doors opening, suspension settings changing, and the vehicle’s charging ability being tampered with. The FCC’s inquiry amplifies the significance of such cases and the need for automakers to establish robust policies to prevent misuse.

Requested information and deadline

Chairwoman Rosenworcel’s letter to automakers seeks detailed information about their policies, particularly regarding the removal of access to connected apps for individuals listed on the vehicle’s title. The FCC has set a deadline of January 26 for the automakers to respond, reflecting the urgency and importance attached to addressing these concerns.

The FCC’s proactive approach to seek clarity from automakers on their policies related to internet-connected car technology reflects recognition of the evolving challenges in the digital age. As technology continues to shape the automotive landscape, ensuring the responsible use of connectivity features becomes imperative to protect users, particularly those vulnerable to domestic abuse. The industry’s response to the FCC’s inquiry may pave the way for enhanced safeguards and policies to strike a balance between technological advancements and user safety.