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Class Action Against General Motors LLC, OnStar LLC, LexisNexis Risk Solutions [pdf] (static01.nyt.com)

504 points by troydavis · 885 days ago · 261 comments on HN

Article summary

A class action lawsuit has been filed against General Motors LLC, OnStar LLC, and LexisNexis Risk Solutions, alleging that the companies are collecting and selling driving data without users' consent. The data is collected through OnStar's telematics system, which is installed in GM vehicles. The lawsuit claims that the data is being used to create detailed profiles of drivers, including their driving habits and locations. The plaintiffs are seeking to stop the collection and sale of this data.

Main themes

  • Data collection and privacy
  • Telematics and vehicle tracking
  • Class action lawsuit
  • Corporate surveillance
  • Consumer rights

What commenters say

  • The collection and sale of driving data without consent is a violation of consumers' privacy rights and should be stopped.
  • Companies will continue to prioritize profits over consumer privacy unless they are held accountable through lawsuits and regulations.
  • Some argue that consumers have no reason to be concerned about data collection, as they have nothing to hide, while others believe that this attitude ignores the potential risks and consequences of mass data collection.
  • The use of specific performance as a remedy in the lawsuit is unlikely to be effective, as it is typically only used in cases involving real property and may not be applicable in this situation.
  • Injunctive relief may be a more effective remedy, as it could require the companies to stop collecting and selling the data, but it would require the plaintiffs to show that the harm is irreparable.
  • Some commenters believe that the only way to protect consumer privacy is to take drastic measures, such as disabling or removing the telematics system, while others argue that this is not a practical or necessary solution.
  • The issue of data collection and privacy is not limited to GM and OnStar, but is a broader problem that affects many companies and industries, and requires a comprehensive solution.