The FTC’s Data-Sharing Order Against GM is Finally Settled
GM can no longer share driver data with credit bureaus after a finalized FTC order enforcing strict consent rules.
Matilda
The FTC’s Data-Sharing Order Against GM is Finally Settled
GM Banned from Sharing Driver Data After FTC Settlement In a landmark move for automotive privacy, General Motors (GM) is now legally barred from sharing certain driver data with consumer reporting agencies—a direct result of a finalized Federal Trade Commission (FTC) order issued January 14, 2026. The ruling stems from revelations that GM’s OnStar Smart Driver program collected and sold sensitive driving behavior and location data to third-party brokers without clear consumer consent. If you’ve ever wondered whether your car is tracking you—and who might be buying that data—the answer just got a lot more regulated. Credit: GM What the FTC Order Actually Bans The FTC’s finalized order explicitly prohibits GM and its OnStar telematics unit from sharing connected vehicle data—such as precise geolocation, seatbelt usage, and driving habits—with consumer reporting agencies like LexisNexis and Verisk. These companies previously used the data to influence auto insurance pricing, potentially aff…
