Mobility
TÜV NORD Guardian: New solution for data protection in the connected car
Guardian enables the secure deletion of personal data on the vehicle surface and detects tampering.
Mobility
Guardian enables the secure deletion of personal data on the vehicle surface and detects tampering.
Modern vehicles store a wide range of personal data, including navigation destinations, call lists and stored means of payment. Even after a change of owner or keeper, this data can still be retrieved, which entails data protection risks and potential security problems. With Guardian, TÜV NORD has developed a solution that enables the secure deletion of personal data on the vehicle interface and integrates digital diagnostic processes into the vehicle evaluation.
Guardian is a compact diagnostic system that is connected to the vehicle via the OBD interface. Within a few minutes, it analyzes relevant vehicle data, identifies stored personal information and enables its removal. In addition to data erasure, Guardian provides a technical analysis of the vehicle, including mileage, vehicle identification number (VIN) and fault memory. Manufacturer-specific error codes are also recorded so that a comprehensive diagnosis is possible. Tampering attempts can thus be detected at an early stage. The data obtained is documented in a TÜV NORD diagnostic report and provides a transparent basis for vehicle evaluation.
“With Guardian, we are expanding the possibilities of vehicle evaluation and at the same time taking data protection requirements into account,” explains Jens Staron, Head of Business Competence and Member of the Management Board of the Mobility Business Unit in the TÜV NORD GROUP. “Vehicle users should retain control over their personal data at all times. Our system helps them to remove it securely and at the same time enables a sound technical analysis.”
Guardian can be used whenever there is a change of owner or user and is therefore suitable for the rental car and used car market, among others. In view of increasing regulatory requirements for data protection in the automotive industry, the system offers a future-oriented solution that supports the responsible handling of vehicle data and will continue to be developed further in the future.
Founded over 150 years ago, we stand for security and trust worldwide. As a knowledge company, we have our sights firmly set on the digital future. Whether engineers, IT security experts or specialists for the mobility of the future: in more than 100 countries, we ensure that our customers become even more successful in the networked world.
