Smart home gadgets are spying and leaking your highly personal data; even AI toys for children aren't safe..

The smart gadgets in your home are increasingly becoming sources of privacy leaks, hidden backdoors, and cyberattacks. These include internet-connected (IoT) devices such as smart TVs, vacuum cleaners, Wi-Fi routers, baby monitors, doorbells, streaming devices, and smartwatches.

In fact, data from these sensor- and software-equipped devices is constantly being transmitted to remote servers. According to The Wall Street Journal, millions of smart devices have turned into tools for cybercrime.

In June, the international cybersecurity organization 'Cybernews' analyzed the apps associated with 10 AI toys for children (including Miko, Luna, Dash, and Sphero). The study revealed that half of the permissions requested by these apps were highly risky. All of them sought access to precise location data; six requested microphone access, and five asked for camera access.

It was also discovered that the Luna app continued to track location in the background even after being closed. Seven apps were found to be secretly tracking user data to display advertisements. Among them, Miko was identified as the most concerning, featuring nine permissions and eight trackers.

Vulnerability: Data leakage via industrial MQTT technology
Due to weak technology in robot vacuum cleaners and a security breach in the main server, live camera and audio footage from 7,000 homes was leaked.

Espionage: Misuse of internet connections via cheap devices
Hidden pathways (backdoors) in inexpensive gadgets allow for unauthorized internet access. Hackers then exploit this connection to carry out other cybercrimes.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Dainik Jagran. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.