German Data Watchdogs Approve In-Car Camera Systems

Germany's leading data protection authorities have allayed fears that new in-car camera systems, designed to monitor driver attention, violate data privacy regulations. A spokesperson for the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Information Freedom stated that the systems comply with EU rules, which prohibit the transmission of data to third parties and mandate its deletion immediately after processing.

These systems, known as Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW), became mandatory for new vehicles in the European Union on July 1. They use cameras and infrared sensors to scan the driver's face, head position, and gaze. If the driver's eyes stray from the road for too long, the system issues an alert. The introduction of this technology had sparked criticism on social media, with some dubbing it "Big Brother is driving."

However, data protection officials confirmed that the legal framework is sufficient to meet data protection requirements. They also noted that state-level data protection officers can review compliance and take enforcement measures, including coercive actions, in cases of serious violations.

Experts like traffic psychologist Michael Praxenthaler from the Allianz Center for Technology (AZT) view these automatic attention detectors as a valuable safety enhancement. While scientific studies suggest they can positively influence driver behavior, Praxenthaler acknowledged that concrete proof of reduced accident risks in real-world traffic is still pending. The authorities' reassurance aims to balance the safety benefits with privacy concerns.