• by Seana Mulcahy , September 12, 2005

For those of you who follow my columns, you know that identity fraud is a topic that I not only write about, but follow closely. If you are reading this, protecting your e-mail accounts, Web sites, and PCs from spyware, passwords, PIN numbers, and the like are part of your daily routine. In fact, you probably don't think much about it until there is some sort of an update you automatically download.

Well, I've been thinking about the massive amounts of data we process, and the way that technology has penetrated so many aspects of our lives. I recently bought a new car. As the sales person was showing me all the bells and whistles and how to navigate around the different features, something dawned on me. Cars are becoming "Smart." Sure, it's cool to have all the modern add-ons like OnStar navigation, but think about it for a minute. This is tracking not only who you are--including your address and other personal information--but where you go, who you call (if you use the phone), etc. Everyone talks about the Web being Big Brother...to me, this is like Big Daddy. It freaks me out, quite frankly.

Sure, I want to be able to call someone if I am careless enough to lock my keys in the car. I also want to be able to get navigation information when I'm lost and running out of time getting to a meeting. I'm just a bit unsettled in regard to my privacy. I don't really worry about the car being stolen with the tracking device in place and a hefty insurance policy. However, someone can hack into my car...and yours.

I' m not sure if you've heard the term "telematics." Wikipedia defines it as: "The term telematics is used in a number of ways: "The [integrated] use of telecommunications and informatics, also known as ICT (Information and Communications Technology). More specifically, it is the science of sending, receiving, and storing information via telecommunication devices." More narrowly and commonly, telematics is applied specifically to the use of Global Positioning System technology integrated with computers and mobile communications technology. "Most narrowly, the term is used to refer to the use of such systems within road vehicles, in which case the term "vehicle telematics" may be used. In a recent PC Today magazine article, telematics is defined as computerized navigational, diagnostics, and communications systems. Such technology enables communication with life outside the car. In addition, many new cars today have Bluetooth technology and GPS (global positioning system devices).

The article also highlights the Russian antivirus company Kaspersky Labs, which ignited much press about the danger of viruses possibly infecting cars. The company was concerned that the Cabir virus would infect the onboard computer system of Lexus and Toyota. Of course, the car company denied this. Later this year, another firm began investigating the same case and was unable to crash the system.

The wakeup call is to realize that the industry not only needs to be proactive with these issues but preventative in providing security. Many of these technologies are quite easy to hack into. True telematics technology does provide consumers with safety and security features for their automobiles. However, the data must be secure. What's your take on this technology that has been rather quiet since its inception in 1986? Post to the SPINboard.