FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel on Safe Connected Cars for Domestic Violence Survivors

Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel wrote to auto manufacturers as well as wireless service providers to seek their help in protecting domestic abuse survivors from the misuse of connected car tools by abusers. As modern vehicles make it increasingly easy for passengers and drivers to access hands-free communication tools, find-your-car services, and more, these smart car services can and have been used to stalk, harass, and intimidate survivors of intimate partner violence. The Chairwoman sent letters to nine of the largest automakers serving the American marketplace. These letters ask the companies for details about the connected car systems they offer, any existing plans to support survivors in their efforts to disconnect from abusers, and how these companies handle consumers’ geolocation data. [Also see  Automaker Letters and Wireless Provider Letters]