The Data Collection Dilemma of Smart Security Cameras

If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder.

The conversation covers:

• The devices collecting your data: Any device connected to the internet can collect data. This isn’t necessarily malicious; a smart thermostat, for instance, collects data to heat your home more efficiently.
• How your devices build a profile: Devices use your IP address, online activity, location, and even associations with other people to compile a detailed profile. This profile is often sold to the highest bidder for various reasons.
• How your smart TV builds on this profile: Modern TVs use automatic content recognition (ACR) to screenshot your screen every few seconds, adding to your data profile. Data brokers mine this info.
• How to protect your data: Jon shares practical, actionable steps to keep your data safe. He provides specific tips for adjusting privacy settings making more informed choices about the devices you bring home.

Products we recommend:

• Best streaming device if you you want to avoid ACR: Apple TV 4K
• Jon’s favorite power washer: Ryobi RY142500 Brushless 2500 PSI Pressure Washer

Additional reading:

• Yes, Your TV Is Probably Spying on You. Your Fridge, Too. Here’s What They Know.
• The Best Data Removal Services
• I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear from the Internet
• Can You Really Disappear Online?

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The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast