Replies

> “Out of control” doesn’t begin to describe it. The last thing I want is Big Brother sitting in the passenger seat.

Good Lord! This is the first I've heard of this, but it makes me wonder...

A few years ago during Covid I hit a deer, and my insurance (Travelers) had me install their app to take and send pictures of the damage, to avoid sending an adjuster out into the boonies in person. Fine with me, right?

Now I wonder if subsequent auto-updates to their app include the kind of telemetry you mention with Allstate. Geez, Louise.

Worth checking your phone's "location services" to see if you gave their app permission to track you all the time. Also, review their Terms of Service to see if you granted them permission to track you.

My wife made the switch. Our SIL is the agent and we liked giving him the sale. But now I'm really PO'd.

Plus, I'm getting a daily nagging, intrusive text messages from Allstate! BAD experience!!

Drivewise helps you save with a rate based on you. The sooner you finish setting up, the sooner you'll meet the trip requirement and keep your participation savings. Plus, most customers save with Drivewise, and the safest drivers can save up to 30% off. Text YES for the link to download the app and set up Drivewise today.
Setting up Drivewise is simple, [my name]. Just download the app to create your account -- and follow a few quick steps to enable motion/fitness and location permissions. Text YES for the link or reply HELP if you’d like a video walkthrough. -Allstate
[my name], don't forget: your participation savings depends on completing 50 trips. Download the Allstate app and get set up today to start logging trips. Just text YES for the link.
Hi, [my name] -- don't miss out! Set up Drivewise to view your savings and get personalized insights, all while your trips count towards keeping your participation savings. Text YES for the app link to finish setting up today!

So I have to let them track me for FIFTY TRIPS to get my "participation savings."

"Participation savings" and "Drivewise"-- even their choice of words is slimy and smarmy. Makes me want to go take a shower to get that stench off me.

Welcome to our Brave New World.

These techo horror stories concerning Windows OS keep making me think of a line from Blue Oyster Cult's song "Black Blade", about fictional prince Elric and the semi-sentient demonic sword he relies on.

After we hear his tale of woe and regret the sword itself says "My master is my slave" before laughing maniacally.

Windows is turning out to be like that sword.