Excessive Data Collection by Connected Appliances
Internet-connected air fryers and ovens are gathering more personal information than necessary, including location data and audio recordings, according to a new study. Researchers from the organization Which? examined three models—Aigostar, Xiaomi Mi Smart, and Cosori CAF-LI401S—and found that all of them request precise smartphone location access and seek permission to enable sound recording.
Specifically, the Xiaomi app automatically links to advertising and analytics trackers from Facebook, Pangle (TikTok's business ad network), and the Chinese tech giant Tencent. During account registration, the Aigostar air fryer forced users to provide their gender and exact date of birth with no alternative options. Data collected from Aigostar and Xiaomi devices is transmitted to servers located in China.
Smart TVs and Privacy Risks
Smart TVs remain the top offenders in home surveillance. They continuously monitor what programs, movies, or YouTube channels are watched, along with the viewing times and durations.
“Smart devices collect some of the most sensitive data about our lives—from health information to daily routines and family relationships.” - William Malcolm
This situation highlights the need for users to be cautious when adopting new technologies, especially those involving personal data. Consumers should carefully review app terms of use and privacy settings to minimize the risk of personal information leaks. As interest in 'Internet of Things' technology grows, it is crucial for manufacturers to be more transparent about data collection practices and to prioritize user privacy.