GPS devices have made driving so much simpler in recent years, and it’s hard to find a driver today who does not use one for long journeys. But what are the downsides to being constantly connected when driving? While you’re getting vital information to help you reach your destination, what vital information of yours is flowing the other way?
One big car maker was recently forced to deny that it collects and shares personal data on drivers and their habits through their GPS devices, but we’ve seen time and time again that all that gatherable information can prove too tempting for a company to resist. And with so many devices now coming with location-tracking technology as standard, it’s more important than ever to know where you stand. Your privacy is something you can take control of right now, and the best place to start is the smartphone in your pocket.
Review App Permissions
When you download and install a new app, it will request access to various parts of your phone. Rather than simply tapping “accept” and forgetting about it, take the time to read app permissions and consider whether the app needs access to the parts it’s requesting. Of course a navigation app needs to use your phone’s GPS to function properly, but does it really need access to your full Facebook profile, or your contacts list? If in doubt, you can always look for a less intrusive alternative. Use this free tool from Norton, the App Permissions Comparison Widget, to see just what permissions your app requires: http://www.mobilesecurity.com/widgets/160-app-permissions-comparison-widget
Block locations
Even if you allow an app access to your phone’s GPS, it is simple to revoke that access later. Just go to your phone’s settings and look for the Privacy section where you can revoke access on an app-by-app basis. You should also manually turn-off GPS services when not in use (this is a great battery life saver too!).
Be aware of what you share to social media
If you must allow apps access to your Facebook profile or Twitter account, try to be a bit more aware of what you upload to them. Is there really any need to include your most personal information on social networking sites? Do you really want to give your date of birth to advertisers and companies – or, even worse, identity thieves? Scammers can do a lot of damage with some basic personal info, so don’t make it easy for them by giving it out for free.
Watch for rogue apps
Finally, it’s one thing letting an established global company see where you drive your car, but many people casually pass the keys to their online life to any old app maker. If you want to use an app but can’t be sure it’s trustworthy, download Norton Mobile Security and use it to scan new apps for malware and other security threats.
Check out other articles about connected cars, connected homes, and mobile data:
Some Thoughts on Car Hacking and the Internet of Things - http://community.spiceworks.com/topic/413836-some-thoughts-on-car-hacking-the-internet-of-things
Digging Deeper into Nest Security - http://www.symantec.com/connect/blogs/digging-deeper-nest-security