Amsterdam Stops Smart Traffic Lights Over Privacy Concerns
Amsterdam, Monday, 6 January 2025.
Amsterdam halts smart traffic lights due to privacy risks, highlighting the challenge of balancing technology and data protection. The project faced issues with data security and effectiveness.
Privacy Watchdog Raises Red Flags
The Dutch Data Protection Authority (DPA) has identified serious privacy concerns with Amsterdam’s smart traffic light system, which was designed to prioritize certain road users like heavy trucks and cyclists [1][3]. The authority warned that these systems could collect extensive personal data through mobile apps, potentially tracking users’ complete routes, including speed and timing information [1]. This large-scale data collection often occurred without users being fully aware their information was being processed [1].
Limited Benefits, Multiple Challenges
The project, which began in December 2023, was restricted to a trial at just two intersections [1]. According to Amsterdam’s roads councilor Melanie van der Horst, the initiative showed disappointing results, with minimal improvement in traffic flow efficiency [2]. Beyond privacy concerns, the system faced significant technical challenges, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities and high maintenance costs [3].
Wider Implications for Smart City Projects
The decision to halt the smart traffic lights project, announced on January 4, 2025 [3], represents a significant setback for smart city initiatives in the Netherlands. While Amsterdam has discontinued the program, similar systems remain operational in other Dutch regions, including Flevoland, Haarlemmermeer, and Den Bosch [1], where they face comparable privacy challenges. This development marks the second major project cancellation by traffic alderwoman Melanie van der Horst due to privacy concerns [3].