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The FCC is calling on automakers and wireless carriers to help it craft rules that would prevent domestic abusers from exploiting connected car features to stalk their victims.FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel wants to examine how the agency can use existing law to make sure victims can leave unsafe situations without having to give up their cars.”A car is a critical lifeline that can give survivors a way to escape their abusers, gain independence, and seek support,” Rosenworcel said in a statement. “Survivors of domestic abuse shouldn’t have to choose between giving up their vehicle and feeling safe. We must ensure car manufacturers and wireless carriers understand the full impact of the connectivity tools in new vehicles and how these applications can be used to stalk, harass, and intimidate.”The Safe Connections Act of 2022 gives the FCC has authority to assist survivors of domestic violence and abuse with secure access to communications. It’s already used this law to require carriers to separate phone lines on a family plan so victims can keep their phone numbers and connections to family and friends. Now, Rosenworcel wants to apply it to connected cars, too.For now, her proposal would seek data and public comment on what types of connected car services are out there and whether the agency needs to step in.
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In December, The New York Times reported on an abuser who tracked his wife’s whereabouts using the Mercedes mobile app. During divorce proceedings, Mercedes told the woman that since her husband’s name was on the paperwork, they couldn’t revoke his access. Rosenworcel then wrote to nine of the top automakers and the three carriers demanding more information about how their services work, and whether access can be revoked in cases of domestic violence.Tech companies have been forced to address stalking concerns of late, particularly as location services become more robust. Apple’s Safety Check, for example, lets you review and reset the iPhone location and privacy access you’ve granted to other people. But Cupertino has struggled to get a handle on those who abuse its AirTag trackers.
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