CHARLOTTE—Cameras in the GPS unit of rental cars are making some people think “Big Brother.” Hertz Rental Car says cameras in some of their in-car GPS units don't work.
A spokesperson for Hertz says there is a button to turn around the camera. He also said they don't have any plans to make the cameras functional any time soon.
However, some customers aren't buying it.
Some Hertz passengers who opt for GPS included in up to 18 percent of Hertz vehicles in the last few years, apparently haven't noticed a tiny camera on it. Hertz says they've only had a handful of questions about the cameras, but public interest is growing.
“I think ‘Big Brother watching you,’” said business traveler Paul Jenkins. “Especially the rental car company, their intent there. Is it for insurance? You know, what exactly are they doing?”
The company told us in a statement, "The cameras in NeverLost 6 units aren’t functional and cannot be turned on."
A spokesperson says they don't have the software or the technology to support it.
They go on, "We included a camera option in the event that a video conferencing function might be a useful function..." in cases like an accident.
Welch says she sees a use for that.
“You don't necessarily have all your wits about how. So if someone can zoom in and see number one where you are and see how you, and just help you through the process until help can arrive,” she said.
For others, paranoia is hard to turn off.
“I mean, what proof do they have that it's not working?” asked Jenkins.
“There's too many questions. In fact, it has me thinking about not only other rental car companies, but my own GPS,” he said.