Considering the sweeping regulations and laws meant to safeguard children\u2019s privacy in particular, you might think electronic devices and connected toys for kids would be particularly safe and secure. We generally regard children\u2019s privacy as sacrosanct \u2014 kids are particularly vulnerable to advertisers, marketers, predators, and more.<\/p>\n
With each new data leak brought to light, it becomes ever more clear that we cannot trust manufacturers to take care of our security, or the security of our children. Let\u2019s analyze a couple of examples to understand the nasty surprises smart toys can hold.<\/p>\n
In December 2016, privacy advocates filed a complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission against Genesis Toys<\/a>, producer of Cayla dolls<\/a> and i-Que toy robots. Another defendant was Nuance Communications, the company behind the speech-recognition technology enabling the toys to converse with kids.<\/p>\n The plaintiffs were quite clear from the start: \u201cThis complaint concerns toys that spy.<\/a>\u201d<\/p>\n Let\u2019s examine the elements of the claim:<\/p>\n Genesis Toys\u2019 spying capabilities were sufficient cause for German regulators to ban their sales entirely. Owners of insecure toys were urged to get rid of them<\/a>. The German government identifies such toys as concealed surveillance devices, which are prohibited by law.<\/p>\n In December 2016, the Consumer Protection Board of Norway also expressed its concern<\/a> about privacy issues in Cayla dolls and i-Que robots.<\/p>\n\n