AIVD warns of digital risks posed by smart cars
Connected vehicles collect large amounts of data and may be of interest to state actors, according to the service.
The AIVD is warning organisations and government bodies about the digital risks posed by modern vehicles. Cars are collecting increasing amounts of data about occupants, their surroundings and the vehicle itself, while connecting to external systems via the internet.
The warning appears in a new explainer by the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) on smart vehicles. The service is primarily addressing officials in companies and government bodies who handle sensitive information as part of their work.
Modern cars contain numerous digital systems, according to the AIVD. These can collect information about routes, usage, technical performance and the car’s surroundings. Phones, charging cards and other connected devices can also add data to a vehicle’s digital profile.
That data is not only commercially interesting. The AIVD writes that various parties, including state actors, may be interested in the information and could potentially try to gain access. The service therefore calls a smart car a potential source of espionage in the title of the explainer.
The warning does not mean that every modern car is being used for espionage, or that the AIVD is accusing a specific car manufacturer. The service describes a general risk that grows as vehicles perform more functions online and share data with manufacturers, apps or service providers.
For organisations, the emphasis is therefore on risk assessment. Based on the AIVD warning, they should consider which cars have access to sensitive locations, what data is stored and who has access to connected systems. Employees who travel with confidential information may also form part of that assessment.
The publication forms part of a broader discussion about digital security. Cars are now not only means of transport, but also sensors and mobile computers. This offers convenience, for example with navigation, maintenance and electric charging, but makes questions about data ownership, storage and use increasingly important. The AIVD has made no public statement about a specific incident or a demonstrable breach via a Dutch car.
One story, several perspectives
What is established
- The AIVD is warning about the digital risks posed by connected vehicles.
- Modern vehicles are collecting and processing increasing amounts of data.
- The warning contains no accusation against a specific car manufacturer.
Left
Arguments The government should impose stricter privacy rules and clear limits on vehicle data. Citizens and employees should not become dependent on opaque systems that collect information without understandable consent.
Values Privacy, control over personal data, consumer rights and public regulation.
Consequences Stricter rules could increase trust, but could also slow innovation and raise the cost of connected mobility.
Centre
Arguments The risks call for proportionate security standards, transparency and practical guidance for organisations. Not every instance of data collection is suspicious, but sensitive applications deserve additional protection.
Values Balance, expertise, proportionality and practicality.
Consequences Targeted measures can limit risks without banning all digital functions, but require continued oversight and technical knowledge.
Right
Arguments National security and business continuity should carry greater weight when vehicles have access to sensitive locations or information. Organisations must take responsibility for their fleets and suppliers.
Values Security, responsibility, resilience and protection of vital interests.
Consequences Greater investment in security can prevent damage, but smaller companies may struggle to afford the same expertise and systems.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
Fact-check Approved · Nour Haddad — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The claims are based on the AIVD explainer and remain at the level of risks and possibilities. No unsubstantiated specific attacks or perpetrators are introduced.
- confirmed The AIVD published an explainer on digital threats in smart vehicles on 30 September 2026. — The date and title appear on the AIVD website. source
- confirmed Smart vehicles collect data about occupants, the vehicle and its surroundings. — This is explicitly described by the AIVD. source
- confirmed The AIVD identifies state actors as possible parties interested in that data. — The AIVD mentions various parties, including state actors. source
- confirmed The warning does not concern a specific Dutch incident. — The publication is a general awareness and advice page and mentions no specific incident. source
Editor's note
The AIVD is issuing a general warning about risks; no specific Dutch incident or car manufacturer is mentioned. The text does not make the leap from possible risk to proven espionage.Sources
More on this in Dutch media
- De Telegraaf — „aivd slimme auto”
- de Volkskrant — „aivd slimme auto”
- NOS — „aivd slimme auto”