Senators urge FTC to investigate carmakers selling drivers’ location and speed data [Video]

A hot potato: Months after the controversial practice was highlighted, carmakers are still selling drivers’ data, including locations and speeding habits, to data brokers. Now, two Senators have called on the FTC to investigate the matter and share new details.

Much like other internet-connected devices, the online capabilities of modern vehicles allow companies to collect users’ personal data. Reports in March revealed how connected cars with built-in telematics share driver statistics and data with insurers, often without the owners even realizing it.

Since that report was published, General Motors (GM) said it would end its partnership with data broker LexisNexis and analytics company Verisk. New York-based LexisNexis has a “Risk Solutions” division used by the auto insurance industry.

But car companies are still sharing Americans’ driving data with data brokers. A lettersent by Senators Ron Wyden of Oregon and …