Swedish Authorities Warn of Potential Spying Risks from Chinese Electric Vehicles
Stockholm, Sweden – Swedish authorities have issued warnings regarding data transmission from Chinese-made electric vehicles, raising concerns they could be used for espionage and surveillance. The alerts, issued by Trafikverket, Sweden’s transport administration, centre on the volume of data these vehicles collect and transmit, prompting a national security review.
The concerns come amid growing debate over the data security practices of Chinese automakers and the potential for sensitive facts gathered by vehicle systems – including cameras,microphones,and location data – to be accessed by external actors. While no evidence of malicious use has yet surfaced,officials are proactively addressing potential vulnerabilities. This follows a broader trend of Western governments scrutinizing data privacy and security risks associated with connected vehicles, especially those manufactured in countries with differing geopolitical alignments.
A journalist who has recently become a vocal proponent of Chinese cars downplayed the risks,stating the transmitted data is unrelated to sabotage and essential for vehicle operation. He asserted there’s no evidence the data has been used dangerously within Sweden.
However, jens johanson, a senior strategist at Trafikverket, cautioned against dismissing the warnings as “science fiction.” He emphasized the extensive data collection capabilities of modern vehicles and questioned the necessity of constant, large-scale data transmission from Chinese cars. “If we don’t act quickly and coordinated now to adjust and eliminate these risks and vulnerabilities, when they manifest themselves it will be too late to do it,” Johanson stated.
The situation is unfolding as Chinese automotive brands gain increasing market share in Europe, presenting both opportunities and challenges for policymakers and consumers alike. Authorities are now focused on developing strategies to mitigate potential risks and ensure the security of transportation infrastructure and personal data.
