The U.S. Department of Justice is demanding that Apple and Google identify more than 100,000 users of the EZ Lynk car-tuning app [1].
This request marks a significant escalation in federal efforts to crack down on vehicle emissions cheating. By targeting the app's user base, the government is attempting to identify individual vehicle owners who may have bypassed legal pollution controls.
Subpoenas for the data were issued in March and April 2026 [2]. The DOJ is seeking the identities, addresses, and purchase histories of the users [3]. While reports vary on the full scope of the request, some sources said the government is also demanding information from Amazon [4].
The investigation centers on allegations that EZ Lynk willfully helped users violate Clean Air Act emissions standards [1]. The app is used for vehicle tuning, which can include modifying engine performance and emissions settings. The government said it needs this specific user data to prosecute the company for these alleged violations [1].
EZ Lynk denied the allegations [1]. The company has not provided a detailed public rebuttal to the specific claims regarding the Clean Air Act.
The request forces major tech platforms to disclose private customer information for a massive group of individuals. This process typically involves a legal review by the companies to ensure the subpoenas comply with privacy laws, and Terms of Service, before any data is handed over.
“The DOJ is seeking the identities, addresses, and purchase histories of at least 100,000 people”
This move signals a shift in environmental enforcement, moving from targeting manufacturers to pursuing the software tools and individual end-users that enable emissions cheating. If the DOJ successfully obtains this data, it could lead to a wave of civil or criminal penalties for thousands of private citizens, while simultaneously pressuring app store operators to more strictly police tools that facilitate illegal vehicle modifications.
