Driver privacy rules are set to change
We all value our privacy. We all like some things to stay within the four walls of our home, and we don’t like the idea of people nosing around through our drawers. We’re all aware that websites collect sensitive information, and understandably, we are quite cautious about it.
Occasionally, websites are restricted as to what data they can capture from its readers online, just like mobile phone companies are restricted to what data it can obtain from its customers. Now, with drivers across Europe connecting their phones to their van or car whilst out on the road, the European Parliament has made the decision to adopt new rules that will protect the privacy of those who chose to connect to their vehicle.
The new rules will now mean that people can choose to restrict their personal data when connecting to a vehicle. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has stated that where individuals can be identified by things such as GPS information constitutes as personal data, and having a box that is ticked on a form is not consent. The employer will have to discuss it fully with its fleet making sure they know exactly what these new privacy protection laws mean and what they need to do if they are happy to consent to sharing personal data.
Before you say it, leaving the EU won’t make any difference if there is a yes vote in the referendum in June. The law will apply to any company supplying goods and services throughout the EU, regardless of if they are part of the union.
What does it mean for you though?
If you work for a company that requires driving as part of your employment, your employer has to outline exactly what data is useful to them while driving, including your speed, times and locations. If they do not explain it properly and you consent, it could lead to grievances further down the line. Make it a priority to ensure you know what data they are capturing and why, as your understanding of your privacy is crucial.
Hopefully, contracts will be changed going forward to reflect the change but if not, you need to have a good talk with your employer to understand the changes.
Occasionally, websites are restricted as to what data they can capture from its readers online, just like mobile phone companies are restricted to what data it can obtain from its customers. Now, with drivers across Europe connecting their phones to their van or car whilst out on the road, the European Parliament has made the decision to adopt new rules that will protect the privacy of those who chose to connect to their vehicle.
The new rules will now mean that people can choose to restrict their personal data when connecting to a vehicle. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has stated that where individuals can be identified by things such as GPS information constitutes as personal data, and having a box that is ticked on a form is not consent. The employer will have to discuss it fully with its fleet making sure they know exactly what these new privacy protection laws mean and what they need to do if they are happy to consent to sharing personal data.
Before you say it, leaving the EU won’t make any difference if there is a yes vote in the referendum in June. The law will apply to any company supplying goods and services throughout the EU, regardless of if they are part of the union.
What does it mean for you though?
If you work for a company that requires driving as part of your employment, your employer has to outline exactly what data is useful to them while driving, including your speed, times and locations. If they do not explain it properly and you consent, it could lead to grievances further down the line. Make it a priority to ensure you know what data they are capturing and why, as your understanding of your privacy is crucial.
Hopefully, contracts will be changed going forward to reflect the change but if not, you need to have a good talk with your employer to understand the changes.
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